How Sports Medicine Specialists Evaluate Football-Related Injuries

Medically reviewed by Scott M. Levin, MD
Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Specialist
Carmel, NY | Newburgh, NY | Mt. Kisco, NY | Fishkill, NY | Danbury, CT

Why Football Injuries Are Commonly Searched During Football Championship Weekend

As Championship Weekend approaches, many people tune in to watch how the Seahawks and Patriots game will play out. Along with big plays, viewers often see players leave the field after contact or awkward movement.

People often want to know how injuries are evaluated and what doctors look for during an assessment. These questions are not limited to professional football. Similar concerns can come up after recreational games or casual weekend activity.

Football involves speed, contact, and sudden changes in direction. Because of this, injuries may occur at many levels of play.

Football Injuries People Commonly Ask About

When watching football, certain injuries are discussed more often than others. Sports medicine specialists evaluate many of these concerns in both athletes and non-athletes.

Knee Injuries

The knee is stressed during pivoting, cutting, and contact. Fans often fear star players attaining injuries involving the meniscus or knee ligaments such as the ACL or MCL. Knee pain may also develop without a clear injury moment.

Shoulder Injuries

Shoulder injuries may occur during tackles, falls, or collisions. These injuries can involve muscles, tendons, surrounding the shoulder joint such as the rotator cuff or they can involve structures within the joint itself, such as the labrum.  Other common shoulder injuries include shoulder dislocations, in which the humeral head (or the “ball” of the ball and socket joint) pops out of place, or a shoulder separation, in which the end of the clavicle separates from a bone on top of the shoulder, called the acromion. Shoulder pain is a common reason people seek sports medicine evaluation.

Ankle and Lower Leg Injuries

Ankle injuries, including ankle sprains, are frequently mentioned during football games. These injuries may occur when the foot is planted and the leg twists. Symptoms may not always appear right away. Standard ankle sprains are when the ligaments on either side of the ankle stretch out or tear.  A more severe ankle sprain that can occur is referred to as a high ankle sprain, in which the ligament that connects the two main bones that make up the ankle, gets stretched out or tears.  Another common injury seen in football are achilles tendon ruptures in which the tendon attaching to the heel bone tears.

Muscle Strains and Sprains

Muscle strains and joint sprains can occur during sprinting or sudden movement. These injuries may affect the thigh, calf, or surrounding soft tissue. Symptoms can vary depending on activity level.

How Sports Medicine Specialists Begin an Injury Evaluation

Evaluation often starts with a conversation. A sports medicine specialist may ask how the injury occurred and what symptoms are present. Understanding movement patterns and timing helps guide the assessment.

A physical examination is another key step. This may include checking strength, range of motion, and joint stability. Each exam is based on the individual and the area involved.

In some cases, imaging studies may be considered. This depends on symptoms, exam findings, and function. Not every injury requires imaging, and decisions vary by situation.

“When people watch football and see a player go down, the first question is often what the injury might be,” says Scott M. Levin, MD. “From a sports medicine standpoint, evaluation starts with carefully watching the injury to determine the exact mechanism.  It is important to watch the various forces that the extremity or the joint was exposed to and also to determine whether the injury occurred due to a twisting mechanism or direct impact. Understanding how the injury happened is the first clue to determining the nature and severity of the injury.”^[c]

Why Injuries Can Feel Different After the Game Ends

Some injuries look serious on television, while others may seem minor. Adrenaline can reduce pain during activity. Symptoms may become more noticeable later.

Swelling and stiffness can develop hours or days after physical activity. This delayed response is a common reason people search for information after the game is over. Evaluation focuses on how the body is functioning, not just how the injury looked at the time.

Evaluation Is Different for Each Person

Sports medicine evaluation is not the same for everyone. Professional athletes, recreational players, and spectators place different demands on their bodies. Age, activity level, and prior injuries also matter.

A sports medicine specialist considers these factors when evaluating injuries. The goal is to understand what may be contributing to pain or limited movement and to determine appropriate next steps.

Not every football-related injury requires surgical care. Many concerns are initially approached with conservative management based on individual needs.

Football Injuries Beyond Organized Play

Football-related injuries are not limited to teams or leagues. Sports medicine specialists also evaluate injuries from backyard games, flag football, or casual play. Long periods of sitting, standing, or travel during game-day events may also contribute to discomfort. Evaluation may be helpful even when symptoms are not linked to organized sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of doctor evaluates football injuries?

Orthopaedic sports medicine specialists evaluate injuries involving muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons related to activity and sports.

Do football injuries always require surgery?

No. Many football-related injuries are managed without surgery. Evaluation helps determine what type of care may be appropriate.

Why do injuries sometimes hurt more the next day?

Pain and stiffness may increase as inflammation develops after activity. Symptoms can be delayed once adrenaline wears off.

When should a football-related injury be evaluated?

If pain, swelling, or limited movement continues or worsens, an evaluation may help identify the cause.

About Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group

Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group provides coordinated care with a team of providers working collaboratively to evaluate a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. With locations in Carmel, NY, Newburgh, NY, Mt. Kisco, NY, Fishkill, NY,  Danbury, CT the practice offers access to multiple specialties under one network of care.

Services Available at Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group

• Knee pain evaluation
• Shoulder pain evaluation
• Hip pain evaluation
• Elbow pain evaluation
• Hand and wrist pain evaluation
• Foot and ankle pain evaluation
• Sports medicine care
• Joint replacement evaluation
• Arthritis care
• Cervical spine care
• Lumbar spine care
• Fracture evaluation and care
• Podiatry services
• Urgent orthopaedic care
• Workers’ compensation–related injuries
• PRP (platelet-rich plasma) services
• Stem cell–based procedures
• On-site MRI
• On-site ultrasound

About Scott M. Levin, MD

Scott M. Levin, MD, FAAOS, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with fellowship training in sports medicine at Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group. He evaluates sports-related injuries involving the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle in patients ranging from competitive athletes to weekend warriors.

If pain, stiffness, or limited movement continues after football-related activity, a sports medicine evaluation may help clarify the cause. To learn more, contact Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group by calling 845-278-8400 or select a location and request an appointment.

Author

Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group