06/06/2006 - News In Brief
Kickabout warning for out-of-shape footie fans
Physiotherapists were today braced for a huge increase in sports injuries as armchair football fans are tempted to start playing because of the hype and publicity over the World Cup.
The health experts warned unfit fans heading for parks over the next few weeks to play safely and prepare by doing some exercise first.
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists published a World Cup Survival Guide, offering tips on staying fit this summer and warning of the most common problems suffered by footballers, including shoulder, knee, hamstring and ankle injuries.
Top physiotherapist Sammy Margo said: "Injuries are a fact of life for footballers… but it's not just the pros who are prone to problems.
"Out-of-shape England fans who head out for a kick around after watching Sven's boys on TV are at risk of suffering the same injuries as the stars."