2017, Vol. 4, Issue 6, Part D

The function of the ankle in the human anatomy cannot be overemphasized; it helps to support the whole weight of the body and is thus quite prone to injury. The players were asked about their knowledge of ankle morphology and injury against the background of ankle injury being more common in football. The study revealed that pupils could not clearly identify the morphology, suitability of the ankle and causes for ankle injury in football.

Tripping or falling, landing awkwardly after a jump from heading a ball, walking or running on uneven football pitches, twisting or rotating the ankle, rolling the ankle and unsuitable footwear were identified as causes for ankle injury. Home treatment, taping, surgery and proprioception were identified as possible treatments for ankle injury.

Demographic data and data for knowledge of ankle morphology and injury were entered into the SPSS software and analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate correlation. It was observed that the players had a moderate knowledge of ankle morphology and its injury. It was recommended that players learn about sport injuries by attending sport medicine and first aid courses or seminars, perform warm up exercises before any game, land with their knees bent after a jump, cool down after rigorous training, play on soft surfaces like turfs, wear shoes that fit properly and absorb shock.