Nor do we know if other injuries caused by players slipping and falling were more prevalent in the other shoe types. Nonetheless, the researchers conclude that cleat design does play a significant role in ACL injuries and recommend that players should wear non-Edge cleat designs to prevent ACL injuries. Players usually want a shoe that provides the most traction to prevent slipping and falling which can both lead to injury. The dilemma for players and coaches is to find a shoe that balances the ability to provide adequate traction to prevent slipping, yet produce limited amount of friction so the foot can release when planted. Players should be encouraged to experiment with differing shoe types throughout the summer before the start of the season to find a shoe that meets their needs.
More research needs to be carried out on all injuries in football players.
Football coaches are aware that knee injuries seem to garner a great deal of publicity and scrutiny by parents and school administrators. Reducing the number of knee injuries in football can only enhance an already great sport. On the positive side, high school coaches can use this study to point out to concerned parents that the ACL injury rate for high school football players in this is much lower than ACL injury rates for other sports. While we strive to assure our Web site is accurate and timely, UWHC cannot guarantee accuracy of the contents. The content of this Web site and related links should not be used for medical diagnosis, nor as a substitute for medical care.