Impact of Soccer Headers on Balance: New Research Findings

Introduction to Soccer’s Header Technique

In a recent press release from the American Academy of Neurology Sports Concussion Conference, researchers revealed that frequent heading of a soccer ball may be linked to balance issues. Soccer, the world’s most popular sport, prohibits players, except for goalkeepers, from using their hands or arms to touch the ball during play. Consequently, players often use their heads to strike the ball, a technique known as a “header.” This can lead to unintentional collisions when multiple players attempt to head the ball simultaneously, thereby increasing the risk of concussions.

Understanding Concussions

A concussion, or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), occurs when a blow to the head causes the brain to impact against the skull, resulting in a “bruise.” Symptoms can include loss of consciousness, headaches, nausea, tinnitus, confusion, drowsiness, and balance issues. Although the dangers of head collisions in soccer regarding concussions are well-documented, there has been limited research on whether repeated headers may also adversely affect brain function and balance.

Research Study Overview

Dr. Santos and a team from the United States investigated the effects of sub-concussive head impacts on balance among soccer athletes. They presented their findings at the American Academy of Neurology Sports Concussion Conference in July 2018. The study involved 20 amateur soccer players—10 men and 10 women, averaging 22 years old. Participants completed a questionnaire estimating their average number of headers during practices and games. They were also assessed while walking on a foam walkway, both with and without galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) electrodes positioned behind their ears.

Key Findings

The average player reported making approximately 451 headers annually. Notably, players who executed more than 500 headers showed a significant change in their balance metrics: foot placement shifted by an average of 9 mm, and hip abduction response altered by 0.2 degrees. Although these changes are minor and depend on the accuracy of the participants’ header estimates, they suggest that repeated subconcussive head impacts could still influence vestibular function and balance.

Recommendations for Soccer Players

The United States Soccer Federation recommends banning heading the ball for players aged 10 and under, while limiting it to practice sessions for those aged 11 to 13. Implementing these guidelines and educating players on avoiding head collisions may help reduce the risk of mild traumatic brain injuries.

References

Santos F, et al. “Greater exposure to repetitive subconcussive head impacts is associated with vestibular dysfunction and balance impairments during walking.” AAN Sports Concussion Conference 2018.
https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/1659
Bueno, L., Davis, J., and Hutcherson, J. (2018). Beginners Guide to Soccer. [online] US Soccer Players. Available at: https://ussoccerplayers.com/beginners-guide-to-soccer [Accessed 13 Sep. 2018].
Cdc.gov. (2018). What Is a Concussion? | HEADS UP | CDC Injury Center. [online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/basics/concussion_whatis.html [Accessed 13 Sep. 2018].