Soccer QUICKGuide
The experts at Summit Orthopedics provide soccer injury prevention tips in their QUICKGuide to prevent injuries and stay safe during the sport.
The head’s up on headers
Not enough research has been done to conclusively say whether repetitive heading causes long-term brain impairment. We know that even thinking about this can be terrifying for parents. The best advice we can give would be to keep players from heading the ball until they are able to use proper technique and demonstrate good muscle coordination and control of the head, neck and upper body. The ball should hit where the forehead meets the hairline, and the athlete should maintain a rigid neck, head and torso as the ball comes in contact with the forehead. Generally, it is recommended that children under 10 do not head the ball at all.
Save those knees, please
The ACL, one of the ligaments that cross in the knee and stabilize the joint, is an easy target for injury, especially in females. In fact, studies show that females are 2-8 times more likely to injure their ACL. The good news: there is a great warm up program designed to prevent ACL injury that only takes about 15 minutes and can be integrated into practices. It was designed specifically for soccer athletes, and has had promising results in preventing injury. Check it out at: Santa Monica Sports Medicine Research Foundation – PEP Program
Build strength for injury prevention
Strength training, when done in a safe age-appropriate way, has been shown to decrease injuries by up to 50%. Focus on the core – the muscles of your mid-section – which includes both the outermost layer of muscles, like the abs, glutes, and back muscles, and the internal muscles that provide support for the spine and the muscles on top of them. Don’t forget to strengthen those legs as well.
Stay active during off season
Cross-training during the off-season will be beneficial. Seek help from a coach or trainer regarding proper form for strengthening exercises. Focus on strength, core work, and balance training.
Fit gear well
With kids’ feet seeming to grow an inch a day, it can be tempting to buy a size or two bigger just to make them last longer. But when the foot can shift too much inside a bigger-sized shoe, we start to work against the shoe’s ability to adequately support the foot. You don’t have to get the latest and greatest soccer shoe either; just look for good shock absorption, a cleat style and size that fall within your league’s rules, and most of all adequate foot support from a good fit. The bad news is unfortunately during rapid growth spurts you may need to change out those shoes more often than you’d like to maintain good fit. Make sure those shin guards are well fitted also.
Nutrition
Stay hydrated during and after both practices and games. Ensure that you are getting adequate nutrition, including enough protein after matches.
Summit Orthopedics offers comprehensive sports medicine expertise
From Olympians to pro athletes to kids in youth sports and those that just want to be more active—Summit Orthopedics delivers expert care by fellowship-trained sports medicine physicians. If you are recently injured or concerned about ongoing pain, Summit Orthopedics sports medicine specialists have the expertise to evaluate your discomfort and develop a plan to quickly and safely help you get back to being active.
Start your journey to stronger, healthier athletic condition. Find your sports medicine expert, request an appointment online, or call us at (651) 968–5201 to schedule a sports medicine consultation.
Summit has convenient locations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We have state-of-the-art centers for comprehensive orthopedic care in Eagan, MN, Vadnais Heights, MN, Plymouth, MN, and Woodbury, MN, as well as several additional community clinics.
More resources for you
- Risk Factors For Hamstring Injury
- Ask Dr. Skendzel: Is My Child Safe Playing On Artificial Turf?
- Soccer Safety: Sports Medicine Tips For Injury Prevention
- Treat your muscle, bone or joint injury immediately
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Kyle Hall PT, DPT, Lead Physical Therapist
The stronger your hips and core, the less knee injuries you’ll have.
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Jennifer Blade, PT, DPT, CAFS
The difference between the possible and the impossible lies in a persons determination.
Also see...
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Ask Dr. Skendzel: Is My Child Safe Playing On Artificial Turf?
Artificial turf is growing in popularity. But concerns have been raised about the safety of these synthetic fields. Dr. Skendzel explains what we know about the safety of artificial turf today, and what we hope to learn from research that is underway.
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Genetic Influences on Orthopedic Risk
Everyone is susceptible to bone and joint problems, but studies suggest that genetics influence your degree of risk for certain orthopedic conditions, and may also influence the success of your recovery.
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Ask Dr. Skendzel: If my child is experiencing groin pain, when is it time to consult a sports medicine physician?
Young athletes often experience groin pain and soreness. Sports medicine surgeon Dr. Skendzel explains the indicators that pain might be a sign of more serious injury.