Football Foot & Ankle Injuries: From Sideline to Recovery
By: Dr. Norman E. Waldrop, III - Foot & Ankle Orthopaedic Surgeon
Football is one of America’s most thrilling sports — but it’s also tough on the lower extremities. Quick pivots, explosive sprints, and hard tackles put enormous stress on the feet and ankles.
Whether your child is playing youth football, under Friday night lights, or competing in college, understanding common foot & ankle injuries can help you recognize problems early and get them properly treated.
“The foot and ankle are the foundation for every move an athlete makes,” says Dr. Norman Waldrop, orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist at Andrews Sports Medicine. “When they’re injured, it can affect everything — running, cutting, jumping — and it’s important to treat them correctly the first time.”
Here are four football injuries Dr. Waldrop and the Andrews Sports Medicine team frequently see — how they happen, symptoms to watch for, and how they’re treated.
Ankle Fractures
A break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint, often caused by twisting, falling awkwardly, or being tackled from the side.
Symptoms:
- Immediate pain and swelling
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking
- Possible bruising or deformity
Treatment:
“Some ankle fractures can heal without surgery in a cast or boot,” Dr. Waldrop explains. “But unstable fractures often require surgical fixation to restore alignment and allow the joint to work properly.”
Physical therapy follows to rebuild strength, motion, and stability.
Achilles Tears
A rupture of the strong tendon connecting the calf to the heel — often from a sudden push-off or change in direction.
Symptoms:
- Sharp pain in the back of the ankle or calf
- A popping or snapping sensation
- Trouble pushing off the foot or standing on toes
Treatment:
“We individualize Achilles tear treatment,” Dr. Waldrop says. “Some athletes recover well without surgery, while others — especially those returning to high-level play — benefit from surgical repair followed by a focused rehab plan.”
Full recovery often takes several months.
Ankle Sprains (Low & High)
- Low ankle sprain: Injury to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle (most common).
- High ankle sprain: Injury to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula — typically more severe.
Symptoms:
- Swelling, bruising, and tenderness
- Pain with cutting or turning
- For high sprains: pain that travels up the leg
Treatment:
“A low ankle sprain usually recovers with rest and therapy in a few weeks,” Dr. Waldrop notes. “High ankle sprains can be tricky — if not treated properly, they may lead to chronic instability or even require surgery.”
Lisfranc Injuries
Damage to the midfoot where bones and ligaments support the arch — often from twisting with the foot planted or being stepped on.
Symptoms:
- Pain in the middle of the foot, especially when pushing off
- Swelling and bruising top and bottom
- Difficulty bearing weight
Treatment:
“Lisfranc injuries are often overlooked early because the foot can just look swollen,” Dr. Waldrop explains. “But if the bones shift, surgery is usually needed to restore alignment and protect long-term foot health.”
Back in the Game
“The key is not to play through pain,” Dr. Waldrop warns. “Early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can shorten downtime and protect your future in sports.”
Foot and ankle injuries don’t have to end your season — but they do require expert evaluation and treatment. Early diagnosis and the right rehab plan can shorten downtime and protect long-term health.
Dr. Norman E. Waldrop, III - Foot & Ankle Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr. Norman Waldrop, III is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon at Andrews Sports Medicine in Birmingham, Alabama, specializing in foot and ankle injuries. He serves as a team physician and orthopaedic consultant for the New Orleans Saints, the Alabama Crimson Tide, and Homewood High School, caring for athletes from the professional to high school level. Dr. Waldrop is passionate about helping players recover, return to competition, and achieve victory over injury.
At Andrews Sports Medicine, Dr. Norman Waldrop and our team specialize in helping athletes achieve Victory Over Injury and return to the sports they love.
If you’ve experienced any of these injuries or symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Waldrop and our team today at 205-939-3699 or request an online appointment.
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