Football injuries can range from minor annoying aches to serious, traumatic injuries. Below are the most common injuries to the feet and ankles that football players should be aware:
Ankle Sprains
The most common of all ankle injuries, an ankle sprain occurs when there is a stretching and tearing of ligaments surrounding the ankle joint.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is a chronic injury that occurs primarily from overuse and it felt as pain in back of the ankle. If this is ignored it may increase your risk of Achilles Tendon Rupture.
Blisters
Blisters are fluid-filled sacks on the surface of the skin that commonly occurs on the hands, or the feet.
Turf Toe
Is the common term used to describe a sprain of the ligaments around the big toe joint. It’s commonly associated with football players who play on artificial turf.
Metatarsal fracture
A metatarsal fracture is one of the most common injuries in football. The foot has 5 metatarsal bones, which stretch from the ankle to the toes; these bones are fragile and can be damaged easily, especially when the foot is put under constant pressure like it is in football. A fracture of the 5th metatarsal is the most common.
Other Common Football Injuries
Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains are the most common type of football injury. The best immediate treatment for sprains and strains is the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
Muscle Cramps
A cramp is a sudden, intense pain caused by a muscle involuntary and forcibly contracting muscle that does not relax.
Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness
This is some muscle soreness may be felt from 12-48 hours following the activity.
Overtraining Syndrome
Overtraining syndrome frequently occurs in athletes who are training for competition or a specific event and train beyond the body’s ability to recover.