More Common! More Severe?

Soccer Related Injuries on the Rise.

In a recent study from the Journal of Pediatrics results were not surprising for those healthcare providers who treat young athletes. The study showed that there has been “an almost 90% increase from 1990” in registered soccer players. Along with the increase in popularity in the United States there has also been an increase in injury percentages.

“We have seen many more athletes becoming injured due to a variety of reasons, one of the primary reasons appears to be the frequency of play, aggressiveness of play and the specialization of one-sport athletes,” reports Chad J. Tenney, MPT, OCS- Physical Therapist and Orthopedic Certified Specialist for Utah Physical Therapy, Inc in West Haven.

The study showed 111% increase in injuries for children 7 through 17 years of age and 72% increase for 12- 17 year olds. The types of injuries varied but one alarming statistic was the annual rate of concussions per 10,000 participants increased by 1595% from 1990 to 2014.

“Improving techniques, decreasing aggressiveness, playing a variety of sports seem to be three keys in decreasing the chances of young athlete injuries.” states Chad. “When an athlete is well rounded in multiple sports and skills they seem to be able to tolerate the injury and decrease the risks associated with higher level of play.”

“The Good- we have specialized and focused our treatment of these injuries, especially concussion rehabilitation so that recovery is better, faster and more meaningful. The Bad- we are having to use these new techniques so much more often,” states Mr. Tenney.

“We’re seeing athletes play year-round now thanks to club, travel and rec leagues, and the intensity of play is higher than it ever has been. These factors combine to lead to more risk of injury,” adds Xiang, director of research core at the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

Chad Tenney, MPT, OCS
Owner/Clinic Director
Utah Physical Therapy – West Haven