Football is back, and so is the fun! Find your favorite jersey, turn on the game, or play for your team. When football returns, it can be a family affair. Unfortunately, the sport can bring injuries. Each sport comes with a risk for a foot and ankle injury. Today we’re talking about which ones to monitor.

Dr. Anant Joshi at Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC works with athletes, including football players. Whether you are playing for your high school team or cheering on a friend in the league, we know you care about safety and staying healthy. Keep reading for our three common injuries on the field. Score a touchdown and do it safely.

If you’re thinking about the game, think of these injuries:

Achilles tendon injuries

Do you know much about the Achilles tendon? It connects your calf muscle to your heel bone, and it helps you point your toes. There are two major injuries that can occur. Someone may have Achilles tendonitis, which focuses on inflammation. They could also have an Achilles tendon rupture, which is when a tear occurs. Each of these injuries requires prompt attention.

Ankle sprains

That’s right — ankle sprains are a problem in football, too. Watch a game and see how players move on the field. It won’t take you long to understand how much risk there is for the ankle to make the wrong turn. Ankle injuries are serious and can create prolonged symptoms if left untreated. Rest is best for sprains.

Turf toe

If you play football, you may have heard of this injury. The term is inspired by the turf or artificial grass that most affected players train and play on each week. A turf toe is another way of saying that the big toe has been sprained. It is often caused by a player pushing their toe while they run. It can also happen if another player lands on their toe. Big ouch!

Football season is back, and we never left. For any concerns you may have about Achilles tendon injuries, ankle sprains, or even turf toes, we can help you find the answers.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, Dr. Anant Joshi treats a range of conditions, including Achilles tendonitis, ankle sprains, athlete’s foot, complications from diabetes, fractures, fungal toenails, and more. He also performs foot and ankle surgery. He is a board-certified podiatrist in Woodland Park, NJ. Contact the office at 973-256-0002.