Photo: Tony Quinn/SOCCERPIX USA

HEAD INJURIES
These can occur any number of ways, including head-to-head collisions. But most often, they happen when players don't use proper technique. "Don't use the top of your head," advises Brian Mikesell, a former trainer for the MetroStars. "Use the front portion of your forehead—the strongest part of your skull." And always keep your eyes open so you can see the flight of the ball.

MUSCLE STRAINS
Proper warm-up (this usually includes a light jog, stretches and quick stop-and-go movements that simulate game conditions) is key to avoiding strains. "It's even more important to stretch after the warm-up," advises Mikesell, "so your muscles don't tighten up."

SHINS
Shin guards should be worn at all times, even in practice. A good one is both hard and lightweight, to protect the most vulnerable body part in soccer against bumps, bruises, or worse—a broken tibia, which takes a long time to heal.

GROWTH PLATES
Adults don't have 'em; only kids: It's the soft tissue on either end of long bones that eventually turns into solid bone during adolescence. However, it's the weakest area in a child's skeleton (boys are twice as susceptible as girls). If untreated, a growth-plate injury can stunt growth.

ANKLE SPRAINS
No stranger to young athletes, sprains happen most in sports with lots of side-to-side movement. Even if you don't have a history of ankle problems, taping ankles and/or wearing a brace is a good habit. See a doctor if sprains become frequent, for they can become chronic if not properly treated.

KNEE PROBLEMS
Pain below the kneecap is common in youngsters going through growth spurts. Called Osgood-Schlatter disease, it's an inflammation of the patellar tendon and soft tissues where the tendon attaches to the tibia. It usually starts as a bony bump on the upper edge of the tibia that's painful when pressed. If your bone protrudes, see a doctor.

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