Soccer injuries

Soccer injuries cover a wide array of complaints and involve every part of the body. From concussions (head trauma) to plantar fasciitis (foot pain at the bottom of the heel), soccer players are prone to them all. Some of the most common soccer injuries are:

ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears

Knee pain, swelling and tenderness on the inner side of the knee are the usual symptoms of this common soccer injury. There may also be difficulty walking or straightening the knee. The athlete needs to stop all activity when this happens and apply ice to the knee. Taping and elevating will help to reduce swelling. ACL tears always require surgery and physiotherapy to restore function, range of motion and strength. The athlete may have to wear a brace to stabilise the knee following surgery.

Concussions

This can occur from a sudden blow to the head during a fall or during play. Concussions may be mild or severe and symptoms may range from confusion to loss of consciousness. In every instance, medical attention should be sought as even mild concussions can have serious consequences later on.

Hamstring pull or tear

This is a common soccer injury and can range from minor strains to serious rupture of the hamstring muscle. It is characterised by sudden, sharp pain at the back of the thigh that may disrupt your movement. Straightening the leg all the way will also be difficult. This type of soccer injury can be avoided by warming up properly before play and by keeping the leg muscles strong and flexible. If you do suffer a hamstring injury, you need to rest the leg and apply ice until the swelling subsides. A physiotherapist can help you stretch and strengthen your muscles to improve performance and prevent injury.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome

This term refers to pain under and around the kneecap and is also called Runner's knee. Because the patella can move in different directions, inadequate muscle strength, overuse or improper balance can affect the patella and cause knee pain. A player suffering from this type of pain needs to rest from soccer and do some type of low-impact sport such as swimming. A proper rehabilitation program is necessary to stretch and strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee and help prevent re-injury.

Shin splints

This is a type of soccer injury that manifests itself in generalised pain along the inside of the shin bone. Shin pain can be caused by trauma, repeated stress on the leg as a result of overtraining or excessive running on hard surfaces. Beginners are prone to this type of soccer injury as their muscles, bones and joints are used to the effects of high-impact sports. Proper warm-up and cool down are important to preventing this type of injury, as well as stretching and strengthening of the calf muscles. Also, if you over-pronate, you may be advised by your physiotherapist to wear orthotic lifts in your shoes. Resting from soccer and getting yourself under the care of a capable physiotherapist are the best steps you can take to correct this problem.

For these and other types of soccer injuries, please come in and see us, or give us a call.