Soccer Injuries in Children: Managing Load and Growth
Soccer places high physical demands on children, particularly during periods of rapid growth. Sprinting, cutting and kicking increase stress on muscles, tendons and growth plates. Common injuries include heel pain, knee pain and muscle strains.
These often develop gradually and are strongly linked to training load rather than contact. Sudden increases in training intensity or match frequency are common triggers.
Injury prevention focuses on managing load, improving strength and developing good movement patterns. Strength training improves resilience and does not increase injury risk when age-appropriate. Warm-up programs that include balance and landing control have been shown to reduce injury rates.
Playing through pain is common but problematic. Early assessment allows training modification rather than complete withdrawal, helping children remain active while recovering.
Supporting long-term participation requires balancing competition with physical development. A child who remains healthy and confident is more likely to enjoy soccer into adulthood.’