Stronger for the 90 Minutes: Physiotherapy for Football Injuries
With England women’s football team through to the Quarter Finals of the Euros we thought this was a great time to talk about injuries within the sport. Football is the world’s most beloved sport—and one of the most physically demanding. With constant sprinting, tackling, pivoting, and jumping, footballers are at high risk of injury. Whether you’re playing casually or in competition, physiotherapy plays a vital role in keeping you match-fit and minimising time on the sidelines.
So what are some of the most common football injuries we see?
Hamstring Strains
Common during sprints or sudden changes in direction.
Symptoms: Sharp pain at the back of the thigh, bruising, tightness.
Treatment: Eccentric strengthening, soft tissue therapy, graded return-to-play program.
ACL Injuries
Often caused by twisting movements, especially when the foot is planted.
Symptoms: “Pop” sound, knee instability, swelling.
Treatment: Post-surgical rehab or conservative management with progressive strengthening and neuromuscular re-training.
Ankle Sprains
Result from tackles or landing awkwardly from a jump.
Symptoms: Swelling, pain, reduced range of motion.
Treatment: R.I.C.E., balance and proprioception exercises, taping/bracing.
Groin Strains
Caused by overstretching during kicks or lateral movement.
Symptoms: Pain in the inner thigh, weakness, difficulty kicking.
Treatment: Adductor and core strengthening, gradual loading.
Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
Related to overuse and improper footwear or training surfaces.
Symptoms: Dull, aching pain along the shin.
Treatment: Rest, orthotics, soft tissue work, training load management.
As well as managing footballers post injury, Physiotherapy plays an important role in supporting footballers generally. Examples of how we can do this include:
Functional Movement Screening: Identifies imbalances and risk factors before they cause injury.
Sport-Specific Rehab: Rehab plans that mimic football-specific drills and gameplay.
Manual Therapy: Restores mobility and reduces muscle tightness.
Injury Prevention Programs: Like the FIFA 11+ warm-up, which is proven to reduce injury risk.
So what are good ways to help reduced the risk of injury? Well here are our top tips:
Warm Up With Purpose: Use dynamic stretches and sport-specific drills, not just jogging.
Strengthen Lower Limbs & Core: Especially glutes, hamstrings, and hip flexors.
Monitor Training Load: Sudden spikes in intensity or volume increase injury risk.
Prioritise Recovery: Sleep, hydration, and proper nutrition matter as much as training.
Come Back Stronger, Not Just Sooner
Returning to play too early or without proper rehab can lead to recurring injuries. A physiotherapist ensures your return is safe, smart, and performance-focused—not rushed.
Ready to get back on the pitch?
Our sports physiotherapists are experienced in football injuries having worked in the sport and from seeing many footballers at our clinic —from grassroots to elite. So don’t hesitate to get in contact with us if you’re struggling with an injury at the moment or you just want some help with injury prevention.
