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Artificial turf was first produced back in the 1960′s and was first called astroturf. The original astroturf is described today as carpeting over concrete. It has developed a lot over the years and has become quite popular. As synthetic playing fields become more popular more questions arise about them. A big question and an ongoing debate is player safety on these synthetic fields. The question of, are the players more prone to injury on synthetic playing fields rather then on a natural surface is a hot topic.
This is a debate that has been going on for few years. With the old astroturf serious injuries and minor injuries to playe
rs were definitely higher then on natural turf. As artificial turf has progressed over the years it has been developed to resembled natural turf in every way. A study recently been done by the NFL states that on modern synthetic fields major injuries such as a concussion are slightly less likely however minor injuries such turf toe (hallux rigidus). However 80% of NFL players feel synthetic fields are going to shorten there career.
Players on modern synthetic fields are not going to be anymore prone to injury then they would be on natural fields in my opinion. Natural fields have there own risks for injury. If natural fields are not properly kept they are going to be ripped up and become dangerous for players. And you have to remember with any sport you are going to have injury no matter what surface you are playing on.
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I’d be interesting in reading details about artificial turf’s progression, particularly how it’s become more user friendly, and a link to the NFL study saying some injuries are less likely with artificial turf.
I like the link to turf toe. Links like this add value to a blog posting.
Comment by Owen October 2, 2009 @ 11:25 am