Seattle Seahawks Richard Sherman and Earl Thomas sustained serious injuries during Seattle’s remarkable 28-22 overtime victory over Green Bay in the NFC title game last Sunday, but both are expected to play in Super Bowl XLIX on Feb. 1.
Thomas played through a reported separated shoulder while Sherman played with a sprained elbow. Other injuries on the team from Sunday’s game include right guard J.R. Sweezy’s ankle and right tackle Justin Britt’s sore knee.
Injuries involving the foot and ankle from running, side to side cutting or direct trauma (such as a direct hit during a tackle) are more prevalent than you think. Playing a high contact sport like football can accelerate the chance of an orthopedic injury. The following are risks that are common in football:
- Inversion ankle sprains that damage the ankle ligaments, and can also be associated with peroneal tendon injuries and fractures.
- Ankle fractures, metatarsal fractures, and Lisfranc fractures that sideline athletes and sometimes require surgery.
- Contusions and bone bruises resulting from high impact during tackling.
According to ProOrtho, “More than 90% of sprained ankles happen when a person points the foot downward, causing the ankle to “roll over” the foot. This movement can partially or completely tear the anterior talofibular ligament and sometimes the calcaneofibular ligament, which attach the smaller bone of the leg (fibula) to the small bones of the foot.”
When it comes to football, an immediate orthopedic evaluation is key. Focusing on bones, joints and the musculoskeletal system is as crucial as an internal medical exam. Every stadium in the NFL has on site radiology and a few venues also provide MRI services to aid in rapid diagnosis of sports-related injuries.
It is understandable for professional athletes to be concerned about knee and shoulder injuries, which can sideline players for a long period and may be recurring. No one wants a career-ending injury. While knee and shoulder injuries can bring a traumatic end to an NFL career, a good orthopedic surgeon can get most players back into the game.
ProOrtho congratulates the Seattle Seahawks on their repeat Super Bowl appearance, and hopes that the team is healing quickly. We’re looking forward to a repeat win!
If you are suffering from a football or sports-related injury, call ProOrtho and schedule an appointment with one of our physicians at 425-823-4000 or email them at ProOrthoAppointment@proliancesurgeons.com.
