Football is a collision sport, and injuries are part of its reality at every level. Many cannot be eliminated, but good technique, conditioning, equipment and rules reduce their frequency and severity.
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The most common injuries
Concussions: brain injuries caused by a blow to the head or body. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea and sensitivity to light.
Knee injuries: sprains and ligament tears (ACL, MCL), often from cutting or contact to the side of the knee.
Ankle sprains, including high ankle sprains, which take longer to heal.
Shoulder injuries: separations and dislocations from tackling and falls.
Hand and finger injuries for linemen and receivers.
Hamstring and groin strains from sprinting.
Quarterback injuries
Quarterbacks face specific risks: shoulder and elbow strain from throwing, ankle and knee injuries when hit in the pocket, and concussions from blindside hits. Rules protecting passers (roughing the passer) exist for this reason. A strong offensive line and quick decisions protect a quarterback more than anything.
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Concussion: what to do
Any player with a suspected concussion should be removed from play immediately and not return the same day. Return to sports should follow a gradual, step-by-step progression and be cleared by a healthcare provider. The CDC’s HEADS UP program explains how to respond.
Limits on contact in practice: many leagues now restrict full-contact practice time.
Heat precautions: acclimatize gradually in summer, drink regularly and watch for heat illness.
Do not play through warning signs
Pain that persists, swelling, instability in a joint or any head symptoms need medical attention. Playing through injury often turns a short absence into a long one.
