SOCCER HEAD INJURIES [ back to What's New ]
The Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation (Vol 13 Issue 2) reports that cumulative closed head trauma from heading a soccer ball is associated with deficits in memory, cognition and motor control similar to what is seen in boxers. It is recommended that soccer players rely less on heading than other means of blocking or passing, and that soccer plays who do head the ball must learn and master proper techniques of bracing their necks. Apparently the news that repeated heading of a soccer ball could cause mild brain injury was greeted with total surprise by coaches and players. There needs to be much better information for coaches and players alike, and the quicker the better.