Injury associated with soccer: A review of epidemiology and etiology

Objective: To review the more prevalent injuries that occur in soccer, and how they occur and present. Background: Soccer is a sport played worldwide with a growing participation rate in the American and Australasian regions. It is generally played by children and adolescents, who often play into adulthood. Because it is inexpensive, provides exercise, is an outlet for aggression and appears to be a safe activity, it can be an ideal sport for widespread youth participation. Possessing a low injury rate in preadolescent and adolescent age groups, the risk of injury increases with the age of the participants. Methods: Literature search of the MEDLINE database including articles on outdoor soccer were synthesized. Discussion: Potential risk factors for injury and preventive strategies are discussed. The epidemiology of various soccer injuries is presented as appropriate for different age groups and in relation to other common sporting activities. Specific injury sites and pathologies incurred to these areas is detailed. Conclusion: Injuries are most common in the ankle and knee joints, with injury to muscle most commonly occurring in the thigh. Pre-adolescents participants have the lowest rate of injury compared to other age groups, with the incidence of injury increasing with age. The recognition of risk factors by the practitioner and advice about the implementation of appropriate safety equipment can help to minimize the number of injuries occurring on the soccer field.