When you think of soccer injuries, the first thing that may come to mind is getting kicked in the shin during a tough game. But did you know that there are actually three distinct types of soccer injuries? While all of these injuries can be serious, understanding the differences between them will help soccer players take the proper steps to prevent them and protect their health. *This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience from which I may earn a small commission.
Each year, more than 477,500 soccer-related injuries are treated in hospitals, doctors’ offices, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers and hospital emergency rooms. This makes proper knowledge and self-care essential. I connected with one of the best in the business Dr. Amir Khan. In this post he will help you understand some of these injuries and how they happen. Here are 3 types of soccer injuries and what you should do about them. – From Dr. Amir Khan
Injury Overview
Soccer, a physically demanding and highly competitive sport, can leave players feeling exhausted and prone to injury. Whether you are a professional or recreational soccer player, understanding the various types of soccer injuries and how to prevent them can help keep you safe on the field. According to a study conducted by the U.S. National Library of Medicine in 2017, over two-thirds of soccer players between the ages of 8 and 24 sustained an injury within one year of playing. In this article, we will discuss the three most common types of soccer injuries (traumatic, overuse, and biomechanical), the consequences of each, and the preventive measures athletes can take to stay safe. We will also provide insight on when to seek medical attention and the methods of treatment available for each type of injury. With the right knowledge and preventive measures, soccer players of all levels can stay safe and enjoy the game.
Improper warm-up
“The aim of the warm up should be the complete physical and mental preparation for dynamic actions to follow. The athlete should be able to begin the game or training session totally ready to perform at maximal intensity if required.” – Faccioni
It is commonly accepted that warm up activities in soccer are essential for minimizing injuries and improving performance on the field. However, the typical warm up activities used by most soccer coaches are not ideal for achieving these essential goals.
This warm up usually includes an initial jog around the soccer field, followed by 10-15 minutes of static stretching, and ending with some skill activity before the training session or game.
However, this method of preparing a soccer player for a dynamic sport activity such as training or participating in a match appears to have major physiological limitations – Here is how you warm up.
Sinding Larson syndrome
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome (distal patella apophysitis). At the bottom of the patella (kneecap), where the patellar tendon inserts is a small growth plate (apophysis).
This syndrome is irritation and inflammation of this growth plate.
The growth plate is made up of cartilage cells, which are softer and more vulnerable to traction injury than mature bone.
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson is most often seen in children between the ages of 10 and 15.
It usually appears during a period of rapid growth. So this should be a time where kids are seen annually for health and wellness screenings.
Heat injuries (including heat exhaustion & treatment)
Of the 3 types of soccer injuries, heat exhaustion is one. It’s more common than realized among children. Environment, age and genetics are not things we can control. Hydration, dress, climate acclimation, fitness level and education (e.g., are you on medications that would prohibit sun exposure) are within the realm of our control.
Know the difference between heat cramps and heat injury.
Take active precautions to prevent both through acclimating to both a new exercise regimen, new training environment, and new advocacy measures such as electrolyte consumption and proper diet.
In conclusion, soccer is a popular sport that poses a unique set of injury risks. While the most common injuries are sprains and strains, the most serious injuries often occur from contact with other players or with the ground. It is important to remain aware of the risks associated with the sport, and to take precautions such as proper warm-ups, stretching, proper hydration, and appropriate gear to help keep athletes safe.
Thanks to Dr. Khan
I want to thank Dr. Khan for giving us this helpful information! He has so much experience working with youth, adults, athletes and non-athletes. At one point he was working for the NFL team San Francisco 49ers. Dr. Khan also has experience working at Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA. Now located in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, he continues to help athletes.
If you ever have questions about these type of things make sure to contract a Dr. near you. Staying educated and safe is important as we only get 1 body. As Zinedine Zidane said, “You don’t play against opponents, you play against the game of football.” Thus, if the game is respected and players and coaches take necessary safety precautions, soccer injuries can be kept to a minimum.