What are the most typical football injuries?
Typical football injuries tend to affect the lower part of the body, especially the legs. The joints of the knees and ankles are particularly at risk, and the hamstring is the most vulnerable muscle.
It may be the most popular sport in the world, but the nature of the game does come with high injury risks. And with its growth in popularity amongst women, it is important to note that there is a higher injury rate in female players.
So what specifically are the injuries you should look out for? And what are the best treatments?
Typical Football Injuries
Which football injuries do therapists see the most?
The different types of injury vary in the severity. But before we go on to describe the most common types, a word of common sense.
The larger and more significant injuries are often the result of poorly managed injuries or minor injuries that are ignored. So, although it is tempting to play through the discomfort, it is a big mistake. Even minor strains and complaints need proper rehabilitation.
That being said, injuries do happen. The two common injuries to the knee are cartilage tear and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) damage.
Both of these injuries need careful attention and can require serious amounts of rehabilitation. If the ACL has been injured it often makes a popping noise at the time. Soon afterward you will experience either pain, swelling or trouble walking (possibly all 3).
The symptoms are similar for knee cartilage damage, but you may also detect a clicking or grinding sensation in this instance.
Some amount of self-care might help if the knee injury feels very minor. Using a support to protect the knee, fully resting the joint, elevating the knee and applying an ice-pack should all help. Ordinary painkillers can not only ease the discomfort but can help to bring down swelling too.
If you are concerned, it is useful to seek medical advice to see if you need professional treatment. You will invariably require a programme of physiotherapy and may in some cases require surgery.
Other typical injuries
Hamstring strains are common among recreational and professional players alike. They tend to happen when the muscle is overstretched or overburdened.
To treat a hamstring strain follow the standard PRICE treatment (protecting, resting, icing, compressing and elevating) the leg.
But as a necessary adjunct, look into getting additional advice on appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises. It will likely save you from the frustration of having a recurring problem with the hamstrings.
Sprained ankles are a common complaint. A sprain relates to the soft tissue damage around the ankle. The ligaments are often compromised.
Again, as is so often the case, the PRICE protocol is worth following. And in addition, it is worth seeking any additional advice in terms of the possible taping of the ankle, or the use of a brace. A good physiotherapist will often help improve your balance and proprioception in the ankle with suitable wobble board exercises.
Obviously, these are only some of the injuries that occur. At the Perea Clinic, we have experts at hand for the whole range of typical injuries.
We are here if you need us. But in the meantime, enjoy your football, and if your team is in the FIFA World Cup, we wish them the best of luck!!
We hope this information is useful for you. If you have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us 3 mins away from Angel station in Islington. If you like this blog, please share!
We are always happy to help.
