A report from Fox News connects mild traumatic brain injuries (MTBI) to hitting the ball with the head during the sports game of soccer. In the past, the concern was primarily for military personnel and football players. However, the more studies that are done, the more evidence mounts that injuries to those playing soccer can also have a lasting impact on the cognitive and memory areas of their brains.
Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries Revealed Through MRI Scans
Researchers from New York were able to prove through the use of the MRI that heading a soccer ball can lead to similar changes found in the brains of football players and military personnel. The lead researcher, Dr. Lipton, noted that during game play the average soccer player only heads the ball about 5-6 times. But during practice, they may be heading the ball 30 or more times.
Dr. Lipton states that these mild but numerous blows to the head can have a lasting effect. He further says that multiple head injuries do more damage than just one. Therefore, the more heading that was done by soccer players, the more abnormalities were seen in the brain’s microstructure and cognitive performance.
Symptoms of an MTBI:
- Pain in the back or neck
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Extreme tiredness
- Abnormal headaches or migraines
- Problems with cognitive function – memory, attention, confusion, etc.
- Depression and anxiety
- Problems with speech
- Inability to sleep
Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries and Sports
Soccer is becoming a more popular sport in the US. It is important for players to be aware that heading the ball too often can lead to negative effects later on in life. One way to help reduced the damage is to see an upper cervical chiropractor. By using a safe and gentle technique, it is possible to realign the neck and repair damage caused by misalignments.
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Dr. Armen Manoucherian of Health Edge Family Spinal Care in Glendale, California is a Glendale Chiropractor and Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). He has helped many children and adults find natural relief in Glendale, California. His upper cervical clinic also serves the communities of Pasadena, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Burbank. He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems. More information can be found on his website at http://www.healthedgela.com