Brain Damage Found in Deceased Soccer Players
Brain Damage Found in Deceased Soccer Players

Scientists have found a link between “heading” in soccer and brain damage that can cause dementia. Researchers performed a small study on six deceased soccer players who were considered skilled headers. The players averaged a 26-year career in the sport. The researchers also followed 14 retired soccer players suffering from dementia.

According to the study by London’s UCL Institute of Neurology, some professional soccer players might be at risk for long-term cognitive issues. These are similar to disorders faced some football players and professional boxers encounter after years of playing their sports.

Risk of Brain Damage Relatively Low for Most Soccer Players

The lead researcher says this issue likely affects only a small number of players. Researchers also emphasized that the benefits of playing the sport, such as improved cardiovascular health, likely outweigh the risk of developing brain damage.

Four out of the six soccer players studied showed signs of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a brain condition that causes progressive memory loss, and behavioral and motor changes. Further, it can lead to dementia. This disease is also the focal point of the 2015 movie Concussion, which examines the disease’s effect on American football players. While blows to the head and concussions are less likely in soccer than in boxing and football, experts say there could be a cumulative effect over many years of heading.

“If there is a chance soccer players might be at risk serious brain damage down the road, players deserve to know,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

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