Soccer is a sport where injuries can happen frequently. Women soccer players often suffer from pelvic injuries that can be mild to serious. Usually, these injuries aren't severe enough to require pelvic reconstruction surgery. That said, it is possible that they could deteriorate if left untreated for too long. Here's why female soccer players who suffer from pelvic injuries need to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Pelvic Injuries Can Affect Soccer Players
Pelvic injuries are common with athletes who kick a lot, as this motion puts a lot of strain on their pelvic region. As a result, female soccer players often find themselves suffering from pelvic injuries, including pelvic stress fractures.
This problem can cause a lot of pain and decreased mobility that can make it impossible to succeed on the field. It can also cause other problems that must be dealt with immediately through careful exercises and pain management procedures.
Small Exercises May Help
While women soccer players often quit playing their sport or stay off the field for months after a pelvic fracture injury, there are some small exercises that can help their condition. These exercises include hip and knee bends, hip external rotation, bridging exercises, and other simple stretches. These are designed to keep the pelvis area active and avoid further injury.
Unfortunately, it is also possible that these injuries could be exacerbated by these exercises. Even worse, a female soccer play may decide to continue practicing or even playing with a minor pelvic injury. This is a major mistake, as it can lead to more serious problems and even surgery.
Surgery May Be Necessary
Women who suffer from pelvic injuries during a soccer game usually don't need surgery to fix their problem. However, pelvic reconstruction surgery may be required if their injury ends up getting more serious. Some common problems that require pelvic reconstruction surgery include:
- Fistulas in the rectum or vagina
- Vaginal septum
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Uterine prolapse
- Serious physical strain and injury
When this occurs, surgeries (such as pubovaginal slings and a repair of the vesicovaginal fistula) may be necessary, particularly if the woman's pelvic region continues to deteriorate. Sometimes, a minor pelvic injury can turn into one of these problems if it is not treated quickly.
That's why any woman who suffers from a pelvic injury during a soccer game should go see a doctor right away. Being off the soccer field for a few weeks (or even months) may be frustrating, but it could actually save their career or even their life.
