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Soccer injuries in children

Pediatric Radiology volume 39, pages 1286–1298 (2009)Cite this article

Abstract

Soccer is the most popular sport in the world, with FIFA recognising more than 265 million amateur players. Despite the fact that soccer is a contact sport, it is perceived to be relatively safe to play, a factor that has contributed to its status as the fastest growing team sport in the USA. Acute and minor injuries predominate in the statistics, with contusions and abrasions being the most commonly recorded. As would be expected, the majority of soccer injuries are to the lower limbs, with serious truncal and spinal trauma being rare. This article examines the type and anatomic location of injuries sustained by children and adolescents who play soccer, and the main mechanisms whereby such injuries occur. The risk factors underpinning injury occurrence are considered, along with injury avoidance tactics.

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Affiliations

  1. Radiology Department, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, 180 Falls Road, Belfast, BT12 6BE, UK

    Anne Paterson

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  1. Anne Paterson
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Correspondence to Anne Paterson.

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Paterson, A. Soccer injuries in children. Pediatr Radiol 39, 1286–1298 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-009-1416-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-009-1416-1

Keywords

  • Soccer
  • Children
  • Anterior cruciate ligament
  • Celebration injury
  • Overuse injury
  • Falling goalpost