Tibial fractures
Fractures to the shin can affect the tibia (large) or fibula (smaller) bone. Tibial fractures are one of the most severe injuries that can occur in football players. They are particularly common in soccer players, hence the FIFA ruling that all players must wear shin guards.
If the tibia is in a relatively straight position after the fracture, then this fracture can be treated with plaster only. More commonly in football players it is treated with surgical fixation by an internal rod.
Complications such as non-union, compartment syndrome and re-fracture can all occur. Football players who have suffered fractured tibias in recent years include Scott Prince (Brisbane Broncos) and Brendon Lade (Port Adelaide Power), who both unfortunately fractured their tibia twice. Michael Voss of the Brisbane Lions fractured his leg in 1997 but made a complete recovery.
Recovery time for a fractured tibia is 6-12 months.
 
Click on photos to enlarge.
Photos of Anthony Tupou 's fractured tibia (reproduced with permission).
To post a comment or ask a question about these injuries, visit the injuryupdate Forum, click here .
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