Football is one of the most popular sports today, but the nature of the game makes playing those Friday night games risky. The high contact, fast past, and hard-hitting sport is entertaining, but players are at risk for traumatic injuries on the football field.
The most frequently seen injuries happening during football season are:
- Concussions: Football players are more likely to develop traumatic brain injuries due to high-velocity collisions on the field.
- Knee Ligament Injuries: The anterior cruciate ligament is an important knee stabilizer. It can be injured while making sudden changes in direction while moving quickly.
- Hamstring Injuries: An injury to the muscles that run along the back of the thigh usually occurs during sprinting or sudden starts and stops.
- Meniscus Tear: A hit to the knee can occur during a tackle resulting in damage to the knee cartilage.
- Shoulder Dislocations: Forceful hitting, throwing, and lifting make football players susceptible to an injury to the shoulder.
- Wrist and Hand Injuries: Falling onto an outstretched hand while putting all the weight onto the palm and hyperextending the wrist result in injuries to the wrist and hand.
Reduce the risk of an injury while playing football by taking pre-season exercises seriously. Always warm up before training and playing, and stay well hydrated. Wear the right gear, including helmets, pads, athletic support, and well-fitting shoes. It is crucial to listen to your body and stop playing if you are feeling tired or experiencing pain. Injuries most frequently happen when you overexert yourself.
Author: Dr. Ronak Patel is a fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in all sports medicine injuries for adolescents and adults, including knee, shoulder and elbow. Dr. Patel provides comprehensive care for the musculoskeletal system treating acute injuries in Munster, Indiana.