Lacrosse Injuries:Common Foot and Ankle Injuries and Treatment
What is lacrosse?
Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States and is considered the original American sport. It was first played by Native Americans, who used the game as part of ceremonial activities. Today, lacrosse is played using a stick called a crosse and a small rubber ball. Players pass the ball to teammates and attempt to score in the opposing team’s goal. The sport is often described as a combination of soccer, basketball, and hockey because it involves speed, agility, contact, and constant movement.
Lacrosse is traditionally played during the spring season, but many athletes now play year round thanks to indoor leagues and box lacrosse. Since the sport involves quick cuts, sudden direction changes, and physical contact, injuries to the foot and ankle are common.
What are the most common foot and ankle injuries in lacrosse?
Some of the most common injuries seen in lacrosse players include:
Early evaluation and proper treatment are important to help athletes recover safely and return to play.
What is an ankle sprain?
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in lacrosse. They occur when the ligaments that stabilize the ankle are stretched or torn.
There are two main types of ankle sprains: low ankle sprain & high ankle sprain.
What is a low ankle sprain?
A low ankle sprain typically involves injury to the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) on the outside of the ankle.
Treatment often includes:
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Short period of immobilization
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Ice and anti-inflammatory medications
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Physical therapy focused on strengthening and stability
How long does it take for a low ankle sprain to heal?
Most athletes who suffer from a low ankle sprain can return to sport within about four weeks, often wearing a lace-up ankle brace for stability and support.
What is a high ankle sprain?
A high ankle sprain, also known as a syndesmotic sprain, affects the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis, a group of four ligaments above the ankle joint that connect the tibia and fibula.
These injuries usually occur with twisting motions that tear or damage the ankle, leading to a longer recovery time.
Treatment may include:
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Immobilization
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Temporary removal from sports participation for 2 to 4 weeks
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Continued use of a lace up ankle brace during return to play
What types of fractures occur in lacrosse?
Fractures can occur from direct contact, falls, or twisting injuries during play.
Common fracture locations include:
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The ankle
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The metatarsals in the foot
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The Lisfranc joint complex
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The toes or digits
Each fracture is unique, and treatment depends on the specific bone and severity of the injury.
In many cases, athletes with fractures cannot bear weight on the foot or ankle and require imaging and evaluation by a physician.
What is a tendon rupture?
Tendon ruptures are becoming more common in high level athletes. They often occur when a player makes a sudden movement while the foot is planted, placing extreme stress on the tendon.
For athletes who are unsure whether their tendon has ruptured, some common tendon rupture symptoms that an athlete may experience include:
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A sudden pop in the affected area
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Immediate pain
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Weakness or difficulty moving the foot or ankle
Treatment for a tendon rupture depends on the tendon involved and the severity of the tear. Some injuries may require surgery while others can be treated non-surgically.
What are tendon overuse injuries?
Tendon overuse injuries develop when activity levels increase quickly and the tendon becomes inflamed.
This can happen when athletes:
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Increase training intensity
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Play more frequently
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Return to sport too quickly after time off
Treatment typically includes:
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Temporary immobilization
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Anti inflammatory medication
Once inflammation improves, rehabilitation focuses on strengthening and preventing recurrence.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is another type of overuse injury that affects the bottom of the foot.
It often occurs when athletes rapidly increase activity levels or place repetitive stress on the foot.
Foot structure and biomechanics can also contribute to the condition.
Treatment options may include:
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Stretching programs
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Corticosteroid injections in some cases
When should a lacrosse player see a foot and ankle specialist?
These guidelines provide general information, but every injury is different. Treatment plans are always based on a patient’s symptoms, activity level, and specific diagnosis.
Modern treatment options and advanced techniques can help athletes minimize downtime and return to sport safely.
If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain related to lacrosse or other athletic activities, schedule an evaluation with a foot and ankle specialist to determine the best treatment plan.
Related Reading
Staying Active While Recovering from a Sports Injury
What Non-Surgical Treatment Options Are Available for Sport Injuries?
The Pickleball Boom: A Growing Sport, A Growing Risk for Injuries
Meet Dr. Verdoni
Dr. Tyler Verdoni is a fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon at Seaview Orthopaedics specializing in a wide range of conditions, from sports injuries to arthritis and diabetic foot care. He offers advanced surgical techniques as well as non-surgical treatments, including regenerative medicine options like PRP, BMA, and shockwave therapy. A Jersey Shore native and former collegiate athlete, he is dedicated to helping patients recover safely and return to the activities they love.