Soccer

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Epidemiology

The incidence of soccer-related injuries has been studied at length. Additionally, multiple comparisons of injuries across age, skill level, gender, and game and practice time exposure have been investigated [2], [3], [4], [5]. It is extremely difficult to compare the results of these studies secondary to differences in population characteristics, study design, and injury definition, however.

The overall incidence of soccer-related injuries is estimated to be approximately 10 to 15 injuries per

Upper extremity

Among soccer athletes, upper extremity injuries are, without question, less common than lower extremity injuries. Moreover, when upper extremity injuries occur, athletes tend not to lose as much practice or game time when compared with lower extremity injuries [6]. Upper extremity injuries seem to involve the goalkeeper position more often than any other player position. General upper extremity injury patterns, mechanisms, and treatment of some of the more common upper extremity injuries are

Spine injuries

Spine pain is a common diagnostic challenge for the primary care physician treating sports-related injuries. Fortunately, most spine pain is self-limiting and without permanent impairment. If timely recovery is expected, however, accurate diagnosis followed by appropriate management is crucial.

Lower extremity injuries

Undoubtedly, most injuries that occur during soccer play involve the lower extremity. The physical limitations of each injury depend on the severity. A timely diagnosis and treatment plan are crucial components of return to soccer. Common injuries for each joint are discussed in this section.

Muscle tears are generally graded on a scale of 1 to 3 based on the amount of structural damage. A basic “pulled” muscle is considered grade 1. When this disruption (tissue disorganization) continues

Special considerations

Female soccer has grown in popularity worldwide over the previous 25 years. Injury patterns and characteristics have been studied extensively in the male athlete. These data are less complete in regard to female soccer injury patterns. A few studies have revealed a high incidence of injury among female soccer players [28]. Although most of their injuries are minor, most overuse injuries are suspected to be prevented by changes in training.

Although inconclusive, the incidence of indoor soccer

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