Professional football players are admired by football fans around the world. While being a football player may seem like a dream job, it is not without its risks. Even recreational football players are vulnerable to the dangers associated with this popular sport. If you enjoy playing football, practicing the proper safety techniques will help you to have fun without getting hurt.
Acute Injuries
During a game, football players frequently come in direct physical contact with other players. High-speed, high-force player-to-player contact is a common cause of acute injuries in football. Other causes of injury include falling to the ground and getting hit by a football. Minor acute injuries commonly sustained by football players include sprains, strains and fractures. More serious football-related acute injuries often involve the head or neck and include concussions, contusions and internal bleeding. According to American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, football is the most common cause of school sports injuries. The best way to reduce your risk of getting seriously injured during a football game is to wear protective gear such as a helmet and a mouth guard whenever you are on the field.
Chronic Pain
Playing football can put a lot of wear and tear on your body. If you play football on a regular basis, you may eventually suffer from chronic pain. According to KidsHealth.org, chronic pain is often the result of overuse. Football players often develop chronic pain in the back and in the joints. To reduce your risks of developing football-related chronic pain, always perform a quick five-to-ten minute warm-up exercise before each game.
Heat and Dehydration
Football games often take place outdoors on uncovered fields. This leaves players directly exposed to the sun's rays. Running back and forth across a football field in hot weather can cause your body to become overheated and dehydrated. As a result, you might get dizzy or disoriented, or you might even black out. To help prevent dehydration, be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after each game. Also, remember to take periodic breaks in shaded or indoor areas out of the sun.
Stress and Burnout
Stress and burnout are two common dangers that football players often overlook. During football season, professional football players experience a tremendous amount of stress. They face high amounts of pressure from coaches, fans and teammates to perform well and to win games. Even non-professional high school and college football players experience stress from the expectations of their peers, coaches and family members. Such pressure can cause players to push themselves too hard or become overly self-critical. While pushing yourself to be your best can be a good way to stay motivated, stress can ultimately compromise your health. Keep football fun by not letting your mind and body suffer the consequences of unrealistic expectations.
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