Soccer players continually kick, pass and run during a game, so leg injuries are common. Knee problems arise in a variety of ways, but proper safety gear and stretching can minimize the chances of injury. If you're experiencing knee pain after a soccer game, ask your doctor to help you determine the nature of the injury. Avoid risky behavior while playing soccer, such as kicking wildly or landing stiff-legged.
Function
Soccer is a rigorous game, so there are many situations that can lead to knee pain. For example, knee pain can result from overextension of a leg, injury from a blow or landing incorrectly. Problems that might result from these situations include ACL injury, knee bursitis and torn meniscus. Boys are more likely to have Osgood-Schlatter disease or patellar tendinitis, according to MayoClinic.com. Teenage girls are more likely to experience ACL injuries or dislocated knee caps.
Symptoms
Signs of knee problems include redness, swelling, stiffness, weakness, warmth to the touch and popping or crunching noises. If you also experience an inability to flex your knee properly, visible deformities, extreme pain while standing or fever in combination with redness, swelling and pain, cease all physical activity and contact a doctor immediately to determine if there is a serious knee problem. Treatment for knee pain varies depending on the condition or injury. At-home treatment options include icing, elevation, compression with tight bandages and rest. More serious conditions might require surgery or medication.
Safety Gear
Knee braces and knee pads can help soccer players avoid injuries and minimize the worsening of pre-existing injuries. Regulations concerning the types of protective equipment players may wear vary among leagues, so contact league staff or consult the league regulation manual to determine what types of knee protection are suitable for you. Choose knee protection that is tight without being too constricting and that allows full range of motion.
Stretching
Regular exercise and proper stretching before a game can help minimize the risk of injuries. Before and after playing soccer, warm up and cool down by performing leg bends and stretches that move the knees through a full range of motion. Perform each movement slowly and steadily. If you've experienced a knee injury or have a medical condition, ask your doctor to tell you which stretches are appropriate.
