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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
10:08
Pseudofracture: An Acute Peripheral Tissue Trauma Model
Published on: April 18, 2011
The footballer's fracture
H R Cattermole1, J R Hardy, P J Gregg
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital of St Cross, Rugby, United Kingdom.
British Journal of Sports Medicine
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Footballer's fracture, a common tibial diaphyseal fracture, often results from tackles. Improved shin guard design may prevent these costly injuries in young athletes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Sports medicine
- Traumatology
Background:
- Tibial diaphyseal fractures, commonly known as footballer's fractures, represent a significant injury in sports.
- Understanding the specific injury mechanisms and outcomes is crucial for prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the typical tibial diaphyseal fracture in football players.
- To elucidate the circumstances and mechanisms leading to these injuries.
- To identify potential avenues for injury prevention.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 100 consecutive adult football players with tibial diaphyseal fractures.
- Data collection via questionnaire on injury circumstances and mechanisms (85% response rate).
- Treatment guided by Gustilo classification, displacement, and stability; long-term follow-up to clinical healing.
Main Results:
- 61% of fractures involved both tibia and fibula.
- 95% of tibial fractures were transverse/short oblique, caused by impact during tackles.
- Bridging callus on radiographs predicted healing time better than injury classification; low rates of delayed union/non-union.
Conclusions:
- Tibial fractures are costly, impacting young employment and healthcare resources.
- Despite shin guard use (85% of players), injury rates suggest potential for improvement.
- Enhanced shin guard design may be key to reducing the incidence of tibial fractures.
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Assessment:
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History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History: