Football is a high-impact sport where injuries are an ever-present risk, and playing surfaces can often exacerbate these dangers. Turf fields, which are increasingly used in stadiums across the country, have been at the center of discussions regarding player safety. Turf, unlike natural grass, doesn’t provide the same give or cushion, leading to higher instances of certain injuries, particularly to the knees and ankles.
Just last season, Aaron Rodgers suffered a devastating injury that cut his season short, sparking renewed conversations about the dangers of artificial turf. Rodgers, who had been playing on a turf field, tore his Achilles tendon, a type of injury that many experts attribute to the harshness of turf surfaces. His injury was a stark reminder that while turf may be easier to maintain, it can take a significant toll on the players who rely on safe, reliable conditions to perform at their peak.
According to recent studies by the National Center for Health Research, artificial turf fields have been linked to an increased risk of a number of injuries, including:
- Knee injuries: The unforgiving surface of artificial turf can put a strain on the knees, leading to injuries such as ACL tears and meniscus tears.
- Ankle injuries: The lack of shock absorption in artificial turf can increase the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries.
- Concussions: The harder surface of artificial turf can increase the risk of concussions.
- Heat-related illnesses: Artificial turf fields can absorb and retain heat, which can increase the risk of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.
If you’re a football player (or the parent of one), you might be wondering what you can do to avoid such injuries from playing on artificial turf. We suggest that players:
- Choose turf-specific cleats: Choose cleats designed for artificial turf. These should have shorter, rounder studs that provide better traction without getting caught in the turf.
- Opt for shock-absorbing soles: Look for shoes with shock-absorbing soles to cushion your feet and reduce the impact on your joints.
- Wear sports or athletic socks. They will keep your feet from sliding and help stop blisters. They also have padding to protect from impact and pressure of harder surfaces like turf.
- Ensure you warm up and cool down. Before practice or games, perform a dynamic warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints for the demands of the sport. Make sure you are also properly cooling down and stretching afterward to avoid stiffness and muscle soreness.
- Condition and strengthen your muscles. A strong and well-conditioned body is better equipped to handle the physical demands of playing on artificial turf.
- Stay hydrated. Because the turf can reach 140 degrees in extreme heat conditions, dehydration can occur at a faster rate. Make sure you are hydrating properly, and if possible, avoid playing on artificial turf when temperatures are exceedingly hot to avoid both dehydration and potential burns.
Whether you’re playing on natural grass or artificial turf, our team at Southlake Ortho is dedicated to keeping you healthy and injury-free. If you do experience an injury, our Sports Medicine Specialists, including Dr. Jonathan Isbell, are here to provide expert care, helping you get back in the game as quickly as possible. From diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, our board-certified surgeons offer comprehensive foot and ankle care and orthopedic knee expertise. Whatever your injury, our experts are here to get you back to playing the game you love. Contact us today by filling out our online contact form or by calling us at 205-605-8180 for our Birmingham location or 205-985-4111 for our Hoover location.
