Injuries and postural deviations in young players' soccer practice

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of injuries, deviations in postural alignment, and possible associations between injuries and postural deviations in soccer players. Twenty-one male professional soccer players, aged 17 to 19 years old, were assessed as to anthropometric features, playing position, length and frequency of soccer practice, and history of injuries linked to soccer practicing. Athletes were divided into two groups: G1 made up by 15 players who had suffered soccer-related injuries; and G2 composed by 6 players with no such injuries. Postural alignment was assessed using a specific protocol. Both groups showed changes in body alignment; the greatest postural deviations found in both groups were scapulae asymmetry, head horizontal deviation and pelvis deviation. As to G1 injuries, the most common were in ankles (35%) and knees (23%). Though no association could be found between postural deviations and injuries, high incidence of both was found, thus suggesting the need to prevention programs in soccer players training.