Clinics in sports medicine
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A long-term soccer career seems to increase the risk for early development of osteoarthritis in the lower extremity. Soccer constitutes a risk for osteoarthritis in two different ways. First, by the increased risk for knee injuries in soccer, such as meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament injuries; and second, by the high loading on hip and knee joints that occurs in soccer. The risk for these undesirable effects of soccer are higher in top-level players.
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This article examines the types of forces that the brain is subjected to in soccer, secondary to both acute brain injury and repetitive heading of the ball. The incidence of acute brain injury is reviewed, as well as studies documenting the effects of heading the ball. Finally, 10 actions are proposed that would make soccer a safer sport with respect to brain injuries and provide avenues for further study in this area.
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Groin pain in the soccer athlete is a common problem accounting for 5% of soccer injuries. Groin distribution has proved to be the most common cause of groin pain. Other causes are direct trauma, ostetis pubis, muscle injuries, fractures, bursitis, hip problems, and hernia and referred pain. Soccer players with groin pain present a complex management problem that is discussed.