Back Injuries in Soccer – How Osteopathy Can Help You Recover and Perform Better

Soccer is an incredibly dynamic sport that requires rapid movements, constant running, and frequent changes in direction. These high-intensity movements put a lot of stress on your body, especially the lower back. Whether it’s the constant impact from jumping, twisting, and sprinting, or the repetitive motions of kicking and decelerating, soccer players are at an increased risk of developing back pain.

At Mixed Osteo, we specialise in treating soccer-related back injuries through a holistic, movement-based approach. Our focus is on treating the root cause of the injury, not just masking the symptoms, so you can return to the field stronger, faster, and pain-free.

Common Back Injuries in Soccer

1. Muscle Strains
   The most common form of back injury in soccer is muscle strain, particularly in the lower back (lumbar spine). These injuries are typically caused by overexertion, repetitive movement, or sudden, awkward twists and turns.

   Symptoms:

   • Pain and tightness in the lower back

   • Difficulty bending or lifting

   • Muscle spasms

   Treatment at Mixed Osteo:

   • Functional Manual Reaction (FMR) to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility

   • Strengthening exercises for the core and lower back to support healthy movement patterns

2. Facet Joint Strain
   The facet joints in the spine allow for flexibility and rotation, but they can be strained during the high-impact movements typical in soccer. This can lead to inflammation and pain in the back.

   Symptoms:

   • Pain when rotating or bending the spine

   • Stiffness in the back, especially after activity

   • Limited range of motion

   Treatment at Mixed Osteo:

   • Manual therapy to restore joint mobility and reduce pain

   • AFS-based rehabilitation to strengthen supporting muscles and improve spine mobility

3. Disc Injuries (Herniated or Bulging Discs)
   The repetitive load on the spine, combined with twisting movements (such as kicking and turning quickly), can lead to disc problems, including herniations or bulging discs. These injuries can cause severe pain and radiate down the legs.

   Symptoms:

   • Sharp or burning pain in the back or legs

   • Numbness or tingling down the legs

   • Weakness in the legs

   Treatment at Mixed Osteo:

   • Targeted manual therapy to decompress the spine

   • Movement-based rehabilitation using AFS and FMR to retrain healthy movement patterns

4. Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
   The sacroiliac joint connects the pelvis to the spine and can become irritated due to overuse, poor posture, or improper movement. Dysfunction in this joint can lead to pain in the lower back and hips.

   Symptoms:

   • Pain in the lower back or hips, especially when standing or walking

   • Pain when twisting or rotating the torso

   Treatment at Mixed Osteo:

   • Joint mobilisations to restore sacroiliac joint function

   • Core and hip stabilisation exercises to reduce strain on the lower back

How We Treat Back Injuries at Mixed Osteo

At Mixed Osteo, we use Applied Functional Science (AFS) and Functional Manual Reaction (FMR) to treat and rehabilitate back injuries. These methods focus on restoring functional movement patterns and strengthening muscles to prevent future injuries.

1. Movement-Based Assessments
   We begin with a thorough assessment of your movements to identify any biomechanical imbalances contributing to your back pain. We look at your hip, pelvis, and core stability, as these areas play a crucial role in protecting your spine during sports.

2. Hands-On Osteopathic Treatment
   We use manual therapy to release muscle tightness, improve joint mobility, and reduce pain. Whether it’s addressing soft tissue restrictions or improving spinal alignment, we ensure that your body moves more efficiently.

3. Sport-Specific Rehab
   Our rehab programs include soccer-specific exercises to help you regain strength, flexibility, and stability in your back and core. We incorporate functional movements to ensure that you’re ready to return to the field safely and effectively.

Book Your Appointment Today!

Don’t let back pain hold you back from doing what you love! At Mixed Osteo, we’re dedicated to helping you recover quickly and safely from soccer injuries. Whether you’re dealing with a muscle strain, joint dysfunction, or disc issue, our team is here to help.

📅 Book online now and get back on the field stronger than ever!