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.
Common upper extremity injuries during intense gameplay include:
- Elbow sprains and ligament strains
- Hand and wrist injuries, including fractures, sprains, ligament tears, and finger trauma
- Shoulder injuries, such as 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: Strong shoulders, arms, and upper back muscles—paired with core stability—help protect the joints from overuse and impact, reducing the risk of common upper extremity injuries during play.
Prioritize Rest and Recovery: Adequate sleep and recovery time between practices and games are vital for optimal performance and injury prevention.
If your athletes experience upper extremity injuries during a football practice or game, don't hesitate to contact us. Our sports medicine specialists at The Hand & Upper Extremity Center of Georgia can offer the expert care and attention your athlete needs. Please call (404) 255-0226 to talk with one of our experts today.