Injuries are an accepted part of football. Whether you're a running back, linebacker, quarterback or receiver, the chances that you're going to suffer an injury are nearly three times great than in any other sport, according to the National Center for Sports Safety. Kickers even sustain injuries from time to time, most notably ankle sprains that occur either on the practice field or during a game.
Causes
As a kicker, your physical demands are minimal at most. However, on those rare occasions where you are forced to run after an opposing player, or change direction on short notice, it isn't uncommon for your ankle to turn over or twist. When this unnatural action occurs, the tough, elastic ligaments that hold your ankle together stretch beyond their normal range of motion, becoming strained or even torn.
Issues
The amount of pain involved in an ankle sprain can range from mild to severe. As a kicker, you need to be able to drive off of your plant foot and kick the ball with great force with your kicking foot. If either of these ankles is sprained, your kicking distance will be greatly reduced and the lack of ligament support in either ankle will keep you from accurately kicking the ball in the direction you want.
Treatment
Before you attempt any radical home treatment, see your primary care practitioner and have them give a complete diagnosis. Immediately after your injury occurs, your ankle will likely swell up and the pain will be at its peak. As soon as you know you've injured your ankle, ice the joint for 15 minutes every two hours. Repeat this process for the first 72 hours, after which you can begin alternating ice and heat therapy. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be used if your doctor recommends them to help reduce the pain and swelling. Recovery times vary depending on the person and the severity of the injury.
Prevention
To prevent repeat ankle sprains, you can wear a semi-rigid ankle brace on the injured ankle. These braces provide additional stability and a mild amount of compression to help support the ankle. Wearing high-top shoes or cleats can also provide additional stability to the ankle and reduce your chances of twisting or turning on it. Once the ankle has fully healed, consult with your physician or a trainer on ankle strengthening exercises to keep you kicking for years to come.
