4 Most Common NFL Injuries
In early 2018, the NFL released their injury data for the 2017 season. The data showed an increase in diagnosed concussions from the previous season, and nearly half of all concussions included some self-reporting of symptoms. In December 2017, the league’s concussion protocol was modified in order to better protect the health and safety of its players. While the NFL and football, in general, are highly popular, it can be a dangerous sport for the players. Below are the most common NFL injuries over the past few years.
1. Knee Injuries
Knee injuries have topped the list in injuries since 2000. There are so many moving parts in the knee that can be injured while playing football. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are commonly affected. Wide receivers and running backs can tear or strain their ACL or PCL by landing too harshly or changing directions abruptly while running. Kickers can suffer from patellar tendonitis, an injury to the connective tissue from the kneecap to the shinbone.
2. Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries have increased over the years. These types of injuries can range from a minor pull to a tendon strain to a high ankle sprain. Aside from the obvious (rough physical contact between players), different factors could be contributing to the an increase in foot and ankle injuries. Improvements in shoes and cleats have led to better performance, but they are lighter and less stable than they were decades ago. Players have gotten bigger, stronger and faster. The foot and ankle have to support high levels of traction and friction during play, which translates into force on those areas of the body.
3. Concussions
After knee and ankle injuries, concussions are the most common injury to affect players. Despite protective gear and the aforementioned improvements to the NFL’s concussion protocol, concussions are still prevalent and have risen in number from previous seasons. Trauma to the brain can take a long time to recover from, and the injury can have lasting effects on the rest of the body’s processes.
4. Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries commonly affect NFL players, particularly quarterbacks. Rotator cuff tendonitis or biceps tendonitis can arise from a repeated throwing motion. Other common shoulder injuries caused by direct contact can occur in other players, such as shoulder dislocation or acromioclavicular (AC) joint sprain or dislocation. These two can often occur during a tackle or in a collision with another player.
Keeping Players Safe
No matter which team you root for, when an NFL player suffers from a serious injury, it can be distressing to watch. One painful moment in a game can cost a player the rest of the season, their career, or even their lives. By continuing to monitor common injuries and modifying protocols, the NFL can reduce the risk of harm for its players.
Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201 Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119