Marc Bernier, United's Director of Sports Medicine and Fitness
Nov 08 2007 - Mike DePriest

For your Injury and Rehabilitation needs contact Mark at:

Email: sportsmedicine@birminghamunited.com
Phone: 205-913-3532

Hydration for Safety and Performance
Apr 09 2008 - Marc R. Bernier, MPT CSCS
It is a well known concept that proper nutrition plays an integral role in providing the essential nutrients for optimal performance. One aspect of nutrition that is sometimes overlooked is the role of proper hydration; failing to maintain proper fluid levels in the body can lead to an increased risk of heat related illnesses and a reduction in performance capability.

Water vs Fluids
Jan 10 2008 - Birmingham United
Water vs Fluids  (by Laurie Evans)

Most people underestimate the simple act of drinking water. The human body is about 75% water and everyone knows that proper hydration is important to keep your body functioning at it’s best. Even more important to remember is that the human brain is around 85% water. The brain gets priority when it comes to hydrating, and if you fail to drink enough water it is the rest of the body that suffers first.

Four Nutrition Myths Among Soccer Players
Jan 10 2008 - Eric Dade
Four Nutrition Myths Among Soccer Players
(By Donald T. Kirkendall)

There are more myths that coaches, players and parents may be following, but below four of the more common myths are dispelled. By following the nutritional guidelines below, players, coaches and teams can put themselves in an advantageous position before the match starts.

ACL Injury and the Female Soccer Player
Jan 27 2008 - Marc R. Bernier
ACL Injury and the Female Soccer Player

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has received a lot of press over the past several years, especially in how it relates to the female athlete. Much of the attention has focused on the seemingly higher injury rates in female athletes as compared to males. Numerous research studies that have been conducted over the past 10 years indicate that females are indeed more susceptible to ACL injuries; most studies report that females are 4-8 times more likely to tear this ligament. The heavily pursued goal that many in the medical community have tried to answer is determining the specific reasons why females suffer from this injury more than males.