💪 Elbow Injuries in Soccer: What You Need to Know & How Osteopathy Can Help
When we think of soccer injuries, the elbow isn’t usually the first joint that comes to mind. But for players involved in frequent collisions, falls, and intense matches, elbow injuries can be painful and debilitating.
At Mixed Osteo in Kensington, Victoria, we see a growing number of athletes—especially goalkeepers and defenders—presenting with elbow pain from the pitch. Whether it’s from a hard fall, awkward landings, or contact during play, we’re here to help you recover fast and safely.
🏥 How Do Elbow Injuries Happen in Soccer?
The elbow is a complex hinge joint that can be injured from direct trauma or overuse. In soccer, this usually occurs through:
Falling onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH injury)
Goalkeeper dives and collisions
Contact during set pieces (e.g., elbows in aerial duels)
Repeated overuse (e.g., throw-ins or strength training errors)
Common Elbow Injuries We Treat:
Olecranon bursitis (aka “student’s elbow”)
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) from throw-ins or training
Elbow sprains or hyperextension
Fractures or contusions
Ulnar nerve irritation (causing tingling into the hand)
📊 Research & Clinical Evidence
Elbow injuries, while less common in field players, are especially prevalent in goalkeepers and in collision events:
Stasinopoulos (2016) highlights that repetitive elbow loading (like throw-ins or diving) can cause tendon overuse injuries like lateral epicondylitis.
Zwerver et al. (2020) note that elbow bursitis and hyperextension injuries are underreported but increasingly common in youth soccer.
According to FIFA’s Medical Research Centre, upper-limb injuries account for nearly 20% of goalkeeper injuries, with elbows being among the top three sites.
👐 Why See an Osteopath for Elbow Pain?
At Mixed Osteo, we don’t just treat the elbow—we treat the body as a whole to restore optimal movement and prevent re-injury.
✅ Hands-on treatment to reduce pain, inflammation, and joint restriction
✅ Soft tissue and fascial release to ease tension and improve mobility
✅ Dry needling or cupping where appropriate for muscle and tendon recovery
✅ Rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and joint stability
✅ Goalkeeper-specific treatment plans tailored to sport demands
⚽ Don't Let Elbow Pain Bench You
Whether you're a keeper, defender, or someone recovering from a fall, early treatment matters. Ignoring elbow pain can lead to chronic instability, loss of strength, or nerve issues.
📅 Book online today at Mixed Osteo in Kensington, VIC and get back on the field with confidence.
📚 References
Stasinopoulos, D. (2016). Lateral elbow tendinopathy: evidence-based management. British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Zwerver, J. et al. (2020). Upper limb overuse injuries in youth sport: diagnosis and treatment. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport.
FIFA Medical Network (2021). Injury Surveillance in Soccer: Elbow and Upper Limb Injuries Among Goalkeepers.
