Head injury and cognitive impairment caused by heading balls

Footballers who consistently head the ball could be at a greater risk of brain injury and cognitive impairment, according to a new study.

Researchers at Einstein Montefiore discovered a frequency threshold for brain injury in footballers, which may lead to new safety guidelines.

The study found that those who consistently head balls exhibit brain injury similar to that seen in patients with concussion.

Dr Michael Lipton, lead author on the study, stated: "Heading a soccer ball is not an impact of a magnitude that will lacerate nerve fibres in the brain but repetitive heading may set off a cascade of responses that can lead to degeneration of brain cells."

Many players who suffer injury as a result of heading the ball may have symptoms that go unnoticed, especially if the condition does not manifest under they are older adults.

However, sportsmen must be aware of the long-term risks certain activities can pose to their cognitive health.

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