Review Addresses Effects of Heading in Soccer on Brain Injury

Whether or not heading the ball in soccer could lead to degenerative brain disease, like that seen in athletes in other sports, is the question being addressed by a review in the January issue of Neurosurgery — the official journal of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons.

To date, there is no clear evidence linking heading to short- or long-term brain injury, according to Dr. Alejandro M. Spiotta of the Cleveland Clinic and his colleagues. However, as research continues, they stress the need for the use of proper heading techniques at all levels of organized soccer. For more information, click here to read the full release.