Soccer is one of the fastest growing team sports in America and is also one with the most injuries. In fact, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 231,447 athletes were treated in hospital …
Soccer is one of the fastest growing team sports in America and is also one with the most injuries. In fact, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 231,447 athletes were treated in hospital emergency rooms for soccer-related injuries in 2012. The fear of a soccer injury shouldn’t prevent you from playing in the first place. But it is important to be aware of the risks and strategies to avoid injury so that you can play as safely as possible. There are ways to help you prevent these common soccer injuries to get you off the sidelines and back in the game—healthy and strong.
What are some of the most common soccer injuries?
Sprains. When playing soccer, a sprain can occur typically in the knee, ankle or lower leg. Pivoting moves combined with frequent lateral movements can contribute to a sprain. One of the most common ligaments injured in the knee is the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL.
How to prevent a sprain. Before you play, always check the conditions of the field to be sure there aren’t any risks for injury such as debris or unevenness. You can also help to prevent sprains by wearing proper footwear and focusing on strength training.
Strains. A strained muscle can occur in the quadriceps, groin, hamstring or the calf. Muscle strains are common in soccer as a result of continuous acceleration and deceleration. They can be quite painful and may even keep you off the field for a few days or weeks.
How to prevent a strain. In order to keep a strain, one of the most common soccer injuries, at bay, following a proper warm-up routine and general condition are great prevention strategies. Also, maintaining good flexibility and strength can lower your chances of developing a muscle strain.
Overuse injuries. Overuse injuries can be the result of a repetitive injury such as tendonitis or a stress fracture. An overuse injury can occur due to poor conditioning or by pushing yourself beyond your level of activity.
How to prevent overuse injuries. It’s best to take at least one to two days each week of non-impact activities and rest. Also, be sure to train and play within your skillset level.
Fractures. The majority of fractures in soccer players occur in the lower extremities such as the fibula, tibia, foot and ankle.
How to prevent a fracture. A fracture can occur in soccer as a result of indirect or direct contact. Wear proper protective girl along with foam padding to help absorb energy and prevent a fracture in soccer.
Head injury. Head injuries typically happen in soccer as a result of a collision between players or improper technique associated with heading the ball.
How to prevent a head injury. In order to provide adequate preparation for heading the ball, strengthen your neck muscles. Also, a fitted mouth guard can be critical to protecting your mouth and teeth.
Add these tips to combatting some of the most common soccer injuries to keep you strong and in the game
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