Safety Touchdowns: Preventing Football Injuries

American football is a billion-dollar industry. It has a loyal following that generates revenues throughout the year. It is also one if not the most beloved sports in the country. We all have seen the most exciting plays during which roughhousing becomes a regular approach to the game. Even if we see all of those as manifestations of the kind of friendly competition we want to think ideally exists in sports, the fact remains that a considerable chunk of yearly records of sports injuries, from minor gashes to major brain damage, are from the world of football.

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The most usual football injuries can be classified based on certain categories. Overuse injuries pertain to various back pains because of too much practice. Training is an essential part of the sport, but overdoing it can lead to serious problems. Muscles and bones must have ample recovery time to function well in succeeding activities. Exhaustion from the heat during training sessions can also bring about dire consequences if not addressed immediately.

More serious injuries include concussions and trauma. A blow to the head can leave one unconscious for a time. Headache, dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms are usually observed from people who have suffered from it. Knee injuries and ankle sprains result from the types of movements involved in football.

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Preventing these injuries require adherence to set training programs and other standard operating procedures. A player must ensure the body’s preparedness before the play by following regular conditioning guidelines, from stretching to hydration, and procedures like physical exams to determine one’s readiness. Standard protective equipment must be correctly worn. First aid must always be ready for a more efficient administration of preventive measures in case of an emergency.

Jon Bunge here. I’m originally from Chicago, Illinois, but I decided to pursue college in foggy San Francisco, California. As a sports fan, my goal is not to become an athlete but to be a sports scientist. The body can be trained to exceed its limitations, and I’d like to help athletes reach their peak mental and physical capabilities. To know more about my inclinations, follow me on Twitter.