Injuries are unfortunately common when it comes to sports. When you push your body to such high levels of activity, especially in the presence of other people who are doing the same thing, there’s an increased risk of harm. Soccer is no exception to this rule. Athletes are expected to run fast, turn on a dime, and kick the ball with high-precision accuracy.
Students at Eastern Carolina University have an opportunity to play for the Pirates’ soccer team. Wirth Chiropractic has partnered with the university to bring our knowledge of healing and wellness to their athletic department. Now, we’ll discuss some of the most common injuries that plague soccer players and what chiropractic care can do to promote a full recovery.
- Ligaments are the sturdy tissue that connect bone to bone. A sprain occurs when one of these ligaments is torn or stretched. Overextension by forcibly turning the joint beyond its limits can lead to a sprain. The most common areas for this type of injury to occur include the ankle, wrist, and knee. Soccer players are particularly susceptible to injuries in their feet, ankles, and legs because of the quick movement and ball control.
- Human bones are stronger than steel, but even they are not impervious to fractures. Broken bones are not uncommon for athletes.
- Shin Splints. The repetitive stress of running and kicking can have damaging effects over a long period of time. Shin splints are the result of excess strain on your shinbone and the connective tissue that attaches to your leg muscles.
- Unlike ligaments, which connect bone to bone, tendons connect bone to muscle. Inflammation of these fibrous cords is known as tendonitis. This typically occurs as a result of overuse, which is common among athletes who have not properly warmed up their body.
- Traumatic Brain Injury. Heading, or hitting the soccer ball with your head, is allowed and encouraged by the rules of the game. But proper technique is key. Without it, you may suffer severe head trauma, including concussions contusions.
Chiropractic care focuses on supporting and accelerating the body’s natural healing process, creating a more comfortable experience for the patient. For example, we might focus on strengthening muscles and improving flexibility after a broken bone. Or we might help realign your body to reduce unnecessary stress on your legs. We may even help you ease the painful symptoms of your concussion.
As a proud sponsor of the ECU athletic program, Wirth Chiropractic is here to help student athletes of all kinds. We assist in a player’s injury recovery process so that they can get back to doing what they love. Recently injured? Get in touch with our offices and schedule your free consultation today!
