Can Heading a Soccer Ball Damage Your Brain?

Is heading a soccer ball putting your brain at risk—even if you’ve never had a concussion?

In this episode of The Brain Injury Insider, brain injury attorney Michael Kaplen explores new research that reveals how repeated headers in soccer may lead to brain changes in amateur players, even without a history of diagnosed concussion.

The study found structural brain changes in the orbitofrontal region—an area critical for memory, learning, and decision-making—among players who had regularly headed the ball.

⚠️ This video covers:

The science behind sub-concussive impacts

What the gray-white matter interface is—and why it's vulnerable

Why no concussion doesn’t mean no damage

What players, parents, coaches, and medical professionals should consider

What changes in soccer safety protocols may be needed

Whether you're a player, coach, parent, or healthcare provider, this episode underscores the importance of rethinking what we assume is "safe" in sports.

📢 Have you or someone you love experienced symptoms after repeated headers or head impacts? Don’t ignore the signs. Speak to a brain injury specialist—and know your legal rights. Visit our website at https://brainlaw.com for more information.

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