Football Injuries

We love football in Williamson County.  This is one of the most popular sports played by young athletes, and it leads all other sports in the number of injuries sustained.  Last year, almost 1 million athletes under the age of 18 were treated in emergency rooms, doctors' offices and clinics for football-related injuries, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

 

 

WHAT TYPES OF INJURIES ARE MOST COMMON IN FOOTBALL?

Injuries occur during football games and practices due to the combination of high speeds and full contact.  While overuse injuries can occur, traumatic injuries such as concussions are most common.  The force appliled to either bringing an opponent to the ground or resisting being brought to the ground makes football players prone to injury anywhere on their bodies, regardless of protective equipment.  Read more about concussions.

Traumatic Injuries

Knee injuries in football are the most common, especially those to the anterior or posterior cruciate ligament (ACL/PCL) and to the menisci (cartilage of the knee).  These knee injuries can affect a player's long-term involvement in the sport.  These players also have a higher chance of ankle sprains due to the surfaces played on a cutting motions.

Shoulder injuries are also common and the labrum (cartilage bumper surrounding the socket part of the shouder) is particularly susceptible to injury, especially in offensive and defensive linemen.  Also, injuries to the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) or shoulder are seen in football players.

Overuse injuries include low-back pain, or back pain and is common in football players due to overuse.  Overuse can also lead to overtraining syndrome, when a player trains beyond the ability for the body to recover.  Patellar tendinitis (knee pain) is a common problem that football players develop and can usually be treated by a quadriceps strengthening program.

Heat injuries are a major concern for youth football players, especially at the start of training camp.  Our humidity this summer has been extreme and excessive sweating can deplete the body of salt and water.  The earliest symptoms are painful cramping of major muscle groups.  If not treated with body cooling and fluid replacement, this can progress to heat exhaustion and heat stroke - which can even result in death.  Football players need to be aware of the need for fluid replacement and to inform medical staff of symptoms of heat injury.

 

HOW CAN FOOTBALL INJURIES BE PREVENTED?

  • Pre-season health and wellness evaluation
  • Proper warm-up and cool-down routines
  • Incorporate strength training and stretching
  • Hydrate adequately to maintain health and minimize cramps
  • Stay active during summer break to prepare for return to sports in the fall
  • Wear properly fitted protective equipment (helmet, pads and mouthguard)
  • Tackle with head up and do not lead with helmet
  • Discuss with Franklin Orthopaedics if you have any concerns about injuries or prevention strategies - we are here for you.