Additional Information

Home Treatments:

Acute blows that lead to visible swelling, inflammation or bleeding can usually be treated at home. If there is a cut, a bandage should be used to close the wound. A analgesic cream may be used on the wound and ice may be administered 20 minutes at a time, 4-8 times in the first 48 hours. The person should refrain from physical activity and should refrain from touching the injured area or sleeping on the injured area to keep swelling and inflammation to a minimum. At least several weeks of rest should be taken if a concussion is suspected, and an acetaminophen drug such as Tylenol should be taken.

Professional Medical Treatments:

Professional aid may be needed to properly treat an acute blow that occurred from attempting to head a ball. Stitches, or surgery may be needed. Additional medications may be prescribed to treat symptoms of a concussion and brain scans may be used to monitor the person's condition. Play here online games for children.

Physical Therapy and Exercises:

Physical therapy will not be part of the recovery of an acute injury such as a broken nose, or bruised cheekbone. Because most injuries involving this movement involve a blow to the face or head by the impact of two persons colliding together, there are no known exercises that aid in recovery. However, yoga is considered to be beneficial in treating post traumatic effects of a concussion.

Exercise Techniques to Prevent Injury:

To prevent injuries due to a weak trapezius when heading a soccer ball, shrug exercises with dumbbells or a barbell should be performed to strengthen the trapezius muscle. Proper heading technique by using your forehead to contact the ball, and creating force with the neck muscles will reduce the risk of injury. A padded helmet will also reduce the risk of injury.