It doesn’t matter if you’re guarding the goal or passing the ball, there are many common soccer injuries that happen on the field or during training.
In this blog, our qualified physiotherapist Ron Prasad shares the 4 most common injuries we see frequently in football players, and how physio may help.
Common Soccer Injuries
- Hamstring strain
Posterior thigh muscles – aka the hamstrings – work hard on the soccer field and a hamstring strain is a painful injury that can occur when one of these muscles is overloaded, stretched too far or torn.
- Knee meniscus tears
A torn meniscus can occur when the knee is twisted or rotated with force, especially when the foot is planted on the ground and is bearing a person’s full weight.
- ACL Injury
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee can be torn or sprained when a person’s knee changes direction abruptly under load.
This injury is common in soccer and other sports where players are frequently and quickly shifting their path.
- Sprained ankle
Ankle sprains happen when the ankle ligaments are stretched too far or torn and often occur when the leg lands awkwardly and the ankle rolls inwards.
They are common in all sports that involve jumping, sudden changes in direction and fast foot work – like soccer.
Factors Which Increase the Risk of Injury
According to Sports Medicine Australia, the following factors can increase your risk of injury on the soccer field:
- Poor skills or physical conditioning
- Age
- Previous injury and or inadequate rehabilitation
- Not wearing the right protective gear
- Conditions of the playing field
- Joint instability
- Unfair play
Physio for Soccer Injuries
The treatment for a soccer injury will depend on its severity, and some players may even require surgery.
Seeing a physiotherapist may be beneficial to carry out an assessment of your injury and diagnose the cause. They can also help to evaluate poor technique or any biomechanical issues which may increase the risk of injury.
A qualified physio, like Ron Prasad, will also take a preventative approach to your treatment with the aim of warding off any future injuries.
Would you like to make an appointment with Ron or learn more about how physio might benefit the soccer player in your family?
Call (07) 3353 4111 today.
If a little niggle, or serious injury is stopping you from reaching your potential and performing at your best, then the trusted team at RRP Physiotherapy can help.
We develop customised treatment plans for people of all walks of life and sporting abilities, including professional athletes.
Our team has a strong background in exercise rehabilitation and is obsessed with health and fitness. But rest assured, we also treat non-sporting injuries like workplace injuries, chronic diseases, musculoskeletal imbalances, body stiffness and much more.
We are located at North West Physiotherapy Everton Park – one of North Brisbane’s most reputable Physiotherapy clinics.
RRP Physiotherapy accepts Private Health Insurance (via HICAPS), and bulk-bills WorkCover, DVA (White/Gold Cards) and GP Management Plans (EPCs). Plus, you don’t need a referral to come and see us!
Book online now or call (07) 3353 4111. Physiotherapy & Sports Physiotherapy.