Concussions in Soccer!
Concussions are being reported at a greater rate than in the past. It may be that more focus and testing is being done, and it may also be that coaches and parents are becoming more knowledgeable about the injury. Concussions are a brain injury! The sport of soccer has many situations where the head of a player is involved in the play. Players in the midfield area often attempt to control a punt or goal kick played by the opposing keeper by heading the ball back in the opposite direction. Players also try to header crossing passes and corner kicks into the goal. In any of these situations players may incorrectly strike the ball with their heads or make contact with other players in the head area. When a head injury occurs, players, coaches, and parents need to be aware of the symptoms that may indicate a posible concussion. Players should always be removed from the game and given a field concussion test. In any head related injury, the Soccer Clubs should recommend a visit to the ER, Urgent Care, or Primary Physician of the player. Concussion symptoms can last for days or weeks.
Coaches and parents should use the Concussion Checklist immediately following a situation where a head injury occurs. Do not wait until the game is over, or worse wait to see if the player feels better. Start monitoring the individual. The checklist is available below under the Resources Link.
Signs and symptoms of a concussion may include:
- Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
- Amnesia surrounding the traumatic event
- Dizziness or "seeing stars"
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Fatigue
No player should return to practice or game conditions if any symptoms of a concussion exists. Players who are cleared by a doctor to return to practice should refrain from any drills that include headers. Players should also refrain from using their head in scrimmage and games immediately after they return to field.
Concussion Resources
