Back and Neck Injuries in Football: What You Need to Know

As the Buffalo Bills football season is quickly approaching, along with other sports beginning as school kicks off, it’s important to stay aware of back and neck injuries that can occur from playing. From sprains and strains to ligaments stretching or even breaking, these types of injuries can have a lasting impact if not treated properly.

With William Capicotto MD, we want to make sure that all sports fanatics stay safe while playing their favorite sport. We understand the excitement of the season and want to help you maximize it by taking preventative steps towards avoiding an injury.

Causes of Injury

Football is a high-contact sport, so most injuries occur from contact with another player. Neck and back injuries can happen from sudden impact or repetitive stress over time. Sprains and strains are common due to the level of physical activity that comes with playing football.

Prevention Tips

The best way to prevent these types of injuries is by taking preventative steps before every game. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Be sure to warm up and stretch before playing to ensure that your muscles stay limber and less likely to tear from strain.
  • Make sure you have the proper protective gear, such as helmets, on when playing.
  • Stay aware of your body at all times so that you notice any changes in your physical well being that may indicate an injury.
  • Always take the time to cool down and stretch after a game as well.

Warning Signs of Injury

It’s important to take these injuries seriously, no matter how small you think it may be. If something does not feel quite right, stop playing and contact your doctor. Warning signs of a neck or back injury can include:

  • Pain when moving your head or neck in certain directions
  • Weakness in hands, arms, and legs
  • Tingling or numbness in the affected area.
  • Headache that won’t go away

If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to contact your doctor or spine expert and have an assessment done.

Neck and back injuries can occur at any time during football season, but that doesn’t mean you should stay away from the sport you love. Taking preventative steps such as warming up before playing and being aware of your body’s needs can help you have an enjoyable and injury-free season. If you think that you might be experiencing a neck or back injury, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for further assessment of your condition.

At William Capicotto MD, we are here to make sure that all athletes stay safe and healthy while playing sports. So get out there and enjoy the football season, with a few preventative steps in hand to avoid neck and back injuries.

Happy football season!