However, the use of helmets and face shields has markedly reduced the incidence of injuries to the face and head. Yet, there has been an increase in neck and spine injuries in the past decade. Some players may adopt a false sense of security, believing that they are not susceptible to injury when wearing protective equipment. Usually, however, that's when injuries occur-when you least expect them. Cruciate ligament tears are less common in hockey and seen more in turf sports, such as football and soccer.
Players can injure their shoulders as well.
A unique aspect of hockey is that gloves normally protect the hands from injury, but when fighting occurs and the protective gloves are removed, the hands become exposed to injury. These injuries include fractures, torn tendons, or even bite wounds from striking an opposing player's teeth. It has been estimated that as many as one-third of injuries are caused by foul play. Many have observed a need for increased vigilance in this area, particularly at the adolescent and high school levels. Establishment and enforcement of effective rules have lead to fewer injuries.