Game On: Common Injuries in Youth Soccer and How to Prevent Them

Youth soccer – it's all about the love of the game, the thrill of competition, and maybe a little post-game snack action. But sometimes, injuries happen, putting a temporary halt to all the fun. That's where physical therapy swoops in, the MVP of recovery, helping young players get back on the field and back to doing what they love. PT tackles those pesky soccer injuries:

1. Ankle Sprains: The classic ankle roll – every soccer player's worst nightmare. Whether it's a misstep during a breakaway or a collision with an opponent, ankle sprains are just part of the game. Did you know that sprains and strains (stretched or torn ligaments and tendons) can take weeks or months to heal, and for many people, do not heal correctly? This leads to chronic instability at the joint. To reduce the chance of ankle sprains/strains, warming up is the best thing you can do. Flexible joints and warm muscles are less likely to get injured. Make sure cleats/sneakers are the right size. If you already have weak or instable ankles, consider a brace or ace wrap to help stabilize the joint.

2. Knee Troubles: From ACL tears to runner's knee, these joints take a beating on the field. To prevent injuries, focus on strength-building exercises like squats and straight leg raises, and balance work like lunges and bridges, young players can kiss those knee troubles goodbye.

3. Overuse Woes: Between practice, games, and tournaments, it's easy for young soccer players to overdo it. That's where overuse injuries like shin splints and tendonitis sneak in. If you're unwilling to take a break from the sport, it's tough to prevent these, but tips include using the proper equipment, warming up statically and dynamically, cooling down after practice or the games, and taking sufficient breaks during play time.

4. Head Bumps and Bruises: In a sport as action-packed as soccer, head injuries are always a risk. Whether it's a collision with another player or an accidental headbutt, concussions can really throw a wrench in the game plan. There's no way to prevent concussions entirely, and soccer isn't exactly known for its use of helmets. To minimize the risk, however, youths aged 11-13 should limit heading the ball to practice only, and under the age of 11 should not be heading the ball at all. Communicate clearly that you are going to head the ball to avoid head-to-head or head-to-foot injuries, and keep the ball to the middle of the forehead just below the hairline.

5. Growing Pains: As young athletes grow, their bodies sometimes need a little extra TLC. Conditions like Osgood-Schlatter or Sever's disease can crop up, causing aches and pains around the knees and heels. With some gentle stretches, maybe a bit of ice, and plenty of encouragement, they'll be back to tearing up the field in no time.

Soccer is more than just a game – it's a passion, a lifestyle, and for many young players, a big part of growing up. But when injuries strike, physical therapy is there to help them get back to doing what they love. With a mix of exercises, hands-on therapy, and plenty of encouragement, PT helps young soccer stars bounce back stronger than ever, keeping the spirit of the game alive and kicking. So, whether it's a twisted ankle or a pesky knee injury, PT's got the game plan for getting young players back on the field and back to scoring goals.

If you or a loved one is in pain after the game, we'd love to help. Call FlexPlus Physical Therapy at 508-650-0060 to schedule your initial evaluation and get on the road to recovery! Not sure if physical therapy is right for you? Ask us for a FREE consultation. At FlexPlus, we're with you every step of the way.