Soccer has rules, regulations, and a style of play that is unlike any other sport. The characteristics of soccer, along with required functional activities, obviously place a significant demand on the physical and technical skills of each athlete. Consequently, many of the patterns of injuries and medical problems are unique. This article describes the physical demands of soccer; reviews the epidemiology; and discusses the mechanisms, pathologic findings, and treatment of soccer-related injuries and medical problems. Content of the article: Epidemiology Upper extremity Head and face Shoulder Elbow, wrist, and hand Spine injuries Mechanical spine pain Sprains and strains Facet syndrome Disc herniation and radiculopathy Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis Fractures Lower extremity injuries Hip and pelvis Knee Ankle Foot Special considerations References
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