Soccer Injuries-Head To Toe
Soccer is a very popular sport both locally and worldwide. References
to the sport go as far back as 200 BC in China and around 4 BC in Greece.
However, soccer as you and I know it did not have a formal set of rules
set down until 1848 at Cambridge University. Soccer is a very physically
demanding sport, thus making those who participate vulnerable to injury.
The National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) has done various studies
on injury rates in high schools athletics, including soccer. It was found
that most injuries in soccer occur to the ankles and feet, followed
closely by the hip, thigh and leg area.
Common injuries include ligament
sprains/tears, muscle strains, contusions (bruises), cartilage tears (more
common in the knee) and fractures. Higher percentages of injuries occur
while kicking and when engaging in controlled pattern activity. Injury
rates were higher at different positions as well. Halfbacks had the
highest rate of injury where the goalkeeper had the lowest. Interestingly,
soccer was the only sport studied that had more injuries during games than
in practice. The statistics are very similar when comparing males and
females in respect to the above information. Head injuries are also of
some concern. Studies by the NATA have shown that ball velocities can
reach speeds up to 100km/hr (62 mph). However, most situations in which a
player will head the ball would be at speeds slower than 100km/hr. Average
speed from a punt is 70km/hr (43 mph) and a drop kick or goal kick 85
km/hr (53 mph). Most opportunities to head a ball are at velocities less
than 65 km/hr (40 mph). Where the ball strikes the head and how the player
strikes the ball are also of importance. Head-ball contacts that occur on
the side of the head or the forehead of an unprepared player can lead to
"whiplash" like injuries. It is recommended that contact be made at or
near the hairline. Although the evidence is not conclusive that repetitive
head shots cause significant impairments in the long term, it is still
worthy of precaution It is no secret that preventing injuries is
preferred. With the higher demands on young athletes today, off-season
training including weight training and general conditioning is an
important step towards preventing in-season injuries. A 15 minute warm-up
before practice and games and a brief cool-down period is also
recommended. Rest and fluid breaks are important as well. Protective gear
such as mouthpieces and shin-guards can be very helpful. There are even
various types of headgear that can be worn to protect the head. While we
all get bumps and bruises, more serious injuries that involve high levels
of pain, swelling and loss of function should be evaluated by your
physician. Your physician may refer you to physical therapy for treatment.
Your Excel physical therapist can guide you through a rehabilitation
program to get you back on the playing field as quickly and safely as
possible. Best of luck to all athletes this spring season! www.ExcelPT.com
