Extrinsic Factors Contributing to Achilles Tendon Ruptures During NFL Games From 2010-2023: A Retrospective Analysis

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Epidemiology
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Achilles tendon ruptures are severe injuries impacting professional football players' careers.
• The incidence of these ruptures in National Football League (NFL) athletes has risen over the last decade.
• Understanding extrinsic factors is crucial for managing these injuries due to high physical demands and potential long-term limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of extrinsic factors in Achilles tendon ruptures among NFL players.
• Examined playing surface, in-season timing, game quarter, and rest days as potential contributors.
• Hypothesized increased ruptures on artificial turf, in the fourth quarter, and later in the season.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of publicly available NFL injury data from 2010-2023.
• Identified Achilles tendon ruptures from injury reports and media sources.
• Utilized descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and chi-square tests for analysis.

Main Results:

• 103 Achilles tendon ruptures were identified among 1,477 ankle injuries.
• Injury incidence peaked in 2023 and 2020, with a notable occurrence in week 4.
• No statistically significant differences were found regarding playing surface, game quarter, or season timing.

Conclusions:

• Achilles tendon ruptures in the NFL have increased in frequency since 2020.
• No significant associations were found with playing surface, game timing, or season progression.
• Further research into modifiable external risk factors is needed for injury prevention strategies.