As with any other sport, soccer is accompanied by injuries.

Soccer is not the most injury-prone sport, but because there are so many players, injuries are common. 87% of all soccer injuries occur acutely, that is, directly on the field during training or a match. The other 13% consist of injuries that develop gradually and are often described as overuse injuries.

Four out of five injuries that arise from or during soccer are in the legs. Ankle sprains are particularly common. A well-known knee injury in soccer players is a torn anterior cruciate ligament. In the hip and thigh, groin and hamstring injuries are characteristic.

Acute injuries

After an acute injury, it must first be assessed whether there is a fracture. If a fracture is suspected, go to the emergency department immediately. Usually there is no fracture, but continuing to play is also not possible. Continuing to play after an acute injury is therefore not advised.

If a coach, athletic trainer, or physical therapist is present, they can assess how serious the injury is. In any case, have the injury assessed within a week by a physical therapist, a sports physical therapist, or a physician. This is important for a good recovery, especially in the case of a serious injury.

If an acute injury causes swelling in a joint or muscle, you may apply ice. Try to maintain ‘relative’ rest for the first hours/days. That is, movement is allowed but in moderation. And do not perform movements that cause pain.

Soccer injuries in the emergency department
The most common soccer injuries treated in the emergency department are fractures, often in the lower leg. Wrist and finger fractures are also seen.

Non-acute injuries

In addition to acute injuries, many soccer injuries also arise from overuse. These are mainly muscle-tendon injuries. These injuries develop gradually. The first signs are often pain or discomfort after training or a match. If this is the case, take some rest and ask a physical therapist or coach for advice on how best to deal with it.

Common soccer injuries

Preventing injuries

Injuries will always exist, but you can reduce the risk. Mainly by starting a training session or match in good condition. Sleep enough and eat healthily to keep the body as energetic as possible. Fatigue is a major risk factor for injury. To keep the body as strong as possible, strength training is important. Muscle-strengthening exercises reduce the chance of injuries. A proper warm-up is also important.

The build-up of training is important as well. Try to stay active during the summer and winter break and build up training gradually. This also applies if the level or intensity is increased, for example when the training frequency goes from once to twice a week.

Using a brace or tape, for example for the ankle, can also help prevent injuries. The most important factor in preventing injuries is proper recovery after a previous injury. The biggest risk factor for a new injury is returning to the soccer field too soon after an injury.

Treatment of soccer injuries

The treatment of soccer injuries depends on the nature of the injury. Rest and graded (modified) rehabilitation/training are always important. Patience is essential. Let a (sports) physical therapist guide you through this.

Soccer injuries