Soccer is big in Sammamish, WA. The YMCA offers Itty Bitty Soccer Class for 3 to 6 year olds in June and Issaquah offers the Spring Micro Academy that begins May 30 at Lake Sammamish State Park grass fields. If you play for one of the 69 high schools in the surrounding area, take advantage of the NCSA Athletic Recruiting Network to try for a college soccer scholarship. Young and old alike enjoy this fun sport—except when an injury keeps them off the field. Here are some tips to prevent soccer injuries from sidelining you.
Number one is maintaining your fitness level. Stay in shape outside of soccer season with aerobic exercise, strength training, and stretching for flexibility. Always warm up with jumping jacks or jogging before a game and follow with slow and gentle stretches. After you play, cool down and stretch again to keep your muscles long and supple. Remember to hydrate well before, during, and after to stay cool and replace lost fluids.
Next, check your equipment. Wear proper shin guards to avoid leg and foot injuries. Shoes with molded cleats will help you keep your balance and traction during play. Avoid a leather ball in wet conditions because it will soak up water, increasing your risk for injury when you kick it. Soccer goals should be well padded and used only for intended purposes—not as a jungle gym once the game is done. Goal posts have fallen on players before with harmful consequences.
Finally, prepare for injuries by having someone trained in first aid available for treatment of minor cuts, bruises, and sprains on the field. Clean scrapes and cuts well to prevent infections. Also, make sure you have a plan for getting medical help for serious injuries like concussions, dislocations, or fractures.
For more information to prevent soccer injuries and other foot problems, contact The Plateau Foot & Ankle Clinic at (425) 868-3338. We specialize in sports medicine in the Sammamish, Bellevue, Issaquah and Redmond, WA, area.
Photo credit: Photonut via RGB-stock
