Soccer players are at greater risk of sustaining a lower spine injury. While playing soccer, the spine undergoes a lot of stress, absorption of pressure, twisting, turning, and even bodily impact. This strenuous activity puts stress on the back that can cause injury to even the finest and most fit players.

Goalkeepers are generally at greater risk for neck and back injury than midfielders, defenders and forwards.

As permanent paralysis may result from neck injury, these injuries must be handled with extreme care.

To help prevent muscle pulls in the back, soccer players should develop strong stomach and hamstring muscles. They should also focus on using proper technique.