Soccer Heads
Many parents have opted football over soccer, because of the proposed risk of injury football invites. A recent study suggested that soccer may offer some of the same risks.
“If you hit the ball with your head, it’ll still hurt….but not as bad,” said Stephen, 10.
“Heading”, a soccer move in which the player hits the ball with his head, is the accused culprit for causing mild, yet measurable nuero-psychological impairment.
“Repetitive concussions, and perhaps repetitive heading of the ball might be leading to some cognitive impairments,” said Dr. Alan Harben, M.D., Brain Injury Specialist.
The effect is cumulative, over time soccer-playing children scored lower on verbal tests than a control group, than non-soccer playing children. On the other hand, the frequency of injury due to soccer compared to football, and even baseball, remains lower.
If a child has recurring symptoms, like dizziness or headaches, it is best to have them evaluated by a doctor, experts contended. Barring children from the sport my be an overreaction, because the benefits still outweigh the risks. Just keep in mind the possible risks.
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What
Are The Odds?
In a recent study of amateur soccer players, 27% experienced one soccer-related concussion at some point ,while 23% suffered at least two and as many as five concussions. Another study comparing various neurological functions showed 39% of the soccer players having impaired planning abilities, compared to a 27% impairment in other athletes. In another test using the same subjects the soccer players had a 27% memory impairment , and the control group had a modest 7% impairment. |
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Who's Getting What? Gymnast
- wrist injuries
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What Parents Should Know
Although it may seem like every time you turn around there is another road block on the path of sports and fun, it is important to keep a healthy outlook on the situation. Locking our children in the house or keeping them off the playing field may be extreme, but we can familiarize ourselves with the facts.
By educating yourself on the possible repercussions of certain sports and particular injuries, you will be better equipped to handle the situation should it present itself.
If your child is an athlete and complains of recurrent headaches, dizziness, or chronic tiredness, you should consult your physician. He could have a concussion or even more serious head injury.
In addition to these mentioned head injures is an encyclopedia of other possible injuries kids may develop, including pulled muscles, broken or fractured bones, torn ligaments, and, of course, those black blue bruises that kids often wear up and down their legs.
Bruises are common and shouldn’t elicit immediate alarm, but if you child consistently mentions an agonizing pain associated with a bruise, he or she may have a broken bone or another more serious injury.
Playing sports is one of the best ways for children to get exercise, make new friends, and have fun, but if he or she comes home from the game with an injury, you should definitely listen.
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Resources
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