How Chiropractic Care Can Shield Soccer Players from Spinal Issues
Soccer is not just the world's most popular sport—it's also a game that blends physical prowess with mental strategy. While the unique rule of not using hands adds to the excitement, it also introduces a host of potential health issues. Soccer players use their feet, chests, and heads to move the ball, score goals, and defend. However, one common technique, the 'header', where players hit the ball with their forehead, can have serious consequences.
Studies indicate that the force exerted on the head, neck, and spine during a header can be as hefty as 450 pounds. This kind of impact, particularly on the cervical spine, can lead to early degeneration, occurring 10-20 years sooner than usual. Common issues among players include disc bulges, bone spurs, and spinal cord compression—all stemming from the repetitive high-impact trauma of heading the ball.
Due to these risks, many soccer players have turned to chiropractic care not just for injury recovery but for preventive measures. Regular chiropractic adjustments can help maintain spinal alignment and mobility, which are crucial for preventing scar tissue and further degeneration. Moreover, these adjustments can help alleviate stress on the central nervous system, offering more than just physical benefits.
To further protect their spines, soccer players should also consider the following steps alongside regular chiropractic visits:
- Master and practice safe heading techniques.
- Regular check-ins with a chiropractor to ensure spinal health is maintained.
- Incorporate neck extension exercises and use ergonomically designed pillows.
- Regularly strengthen and stretch the back's extensor muscles.
- Eat a diet rich in anti-inflammatory ingredients like avocados, coconut oil, leafy greens, and turmeric.
Understanding and implementing these practices can significantly reduce the long-term health risks associated with soccer, allowing players to enjoy the game while maintaining their health and well-being.
European Spine Journal - February 2004
"Soccer causes degenerative changes in the cervical spine." Alparslan Kartal, Ibrahim Yildiran, Senkoylu Alparslan, Feza Korkusuz