Tackling Football Injuries
Football injuries are often the most severe when the intensity of a game is at its highest. Competition can be fierce, and this contributes to more severe injuries.
The most common injuries in these intense periods of gameplay include:
- Head injuries, including concussions and other head trauma
- ACL, MCL, and other knee ligament tears
- Ankle sprains and fractures
- Shoulder injuries, including dislocations, separations, and rotator cuff tears
- Soft-tissue injuries, including muscle strains, pulls, and contusions
To help reduce the risk of these injuries, our sports medicine experts encourage keeping the following in mind:
- Warming Up Is Crucial: A thorough warm-up routine is essential to prepare the body for the game's demands and reduce the risk of injuries.
- Master Proper Technique: Focusing on proper tackling and blocking techniques, such as maintaining a low pad level and avoiding head-to-head contact, can significantly decrease injury risk.
- Build Strength and Conditioning: A strong core, powerful legs, and overall body resilience can better protect players from the physical stresses of the game.
- Prioritize Rest and Recovery: Adequate sleep and recovery time between practices and games are vital for optimal performance and injury prevention.
Not all injuries can be avoided for football teams. If you have a player with an injury, please call Flagstaff Bone & Joint at (928) 255-4508 and ask for our Sports Medicine experts.