Football & Rugby
Most everyone would agree that American Football and the more global Rugby represent two of the roughest of today’s popular sports. The only debate is which one is really the roughest.
Both RUGBY and Football are particularly hard on feet and ankles. Injuries can occur from running, side to side cutting, tackling and other trauma due to player contact and impact during competition. Injuries can also be caused by excessive training.
Achilles tendon ruptures are common injuries in football and rugby. They are usually non-contact injuries and the result of a lack of flexibility due to inadequate conditioning and over-stretching of the tendon. Both nonoperative treatment and surgical repair are effective, based on the severity of the tear. It’s important to see an orthopedic surgeon if you suspect you’ve sustained this type of injury.
The Achilles tendon, stretches from the calf muscle to the heel and although it is the strongest tendon in the body, it is prone to overuse injuries. Normal play and moves in many sports and activities place incredible stress on the tendon making it prone to tendonitis. This inflammation of the tendon leads to pain and stiffness in the calf and a limited range of motion.
Possibly the most common sports injuries are ankle sprains to varying degrees of severity. At some point in an athlete’s career, he or she will experience at least one ankle sprain. When they do occur, proper rehabilitation and conditioning are critical. Studies show that players who have had an ankle sprain are five times more likely to suffer repeat injuries.
The two peroneal tendons in the foot run side by side behind the outer ankle bone. Peroneal tendon injuries may be sudden caused by trauma or develop over time due repetitive ankle motion and overuse. Players with higher arches are at risk for developing peroneal tendon injuries causing pain and swelling. Peroneal tears cause weakness or instability of the foot and ankle.
Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the Plantar Fasciia. It is a thick band of tissue at the bottom of your foot that runs from your heel to toes. It is an injury that can occur all at once due to an accident, fall, sudden impact and overstretching. It can also occur over time progressing due repetitive movement and overuse. It can become debilitating.
As two of the most physically demanding sports in the world, American football and rugby players are extremely vulnerable to foot and ankle injuries. You can however, reduce your potential risk of these injuries by maintaining optimum foot and ankle flexibility and strength to maximize mobility by using AnkleSTONE® as part of your daily conditioning program. Should an injury occur, seek medical attention to accurately diagnose and treat your injury.
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