New York Giants fans have had little to cheer about this year, and now one of the fan favorites is likely done for the season after running back Cam Skattebo suffered a gruesome open ankle dislocation during Sunday’s loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Skattebo was injured midway through the second quarter as he was pulled down from behind in what some are classifying as a hip drop tackle, a dangerous type of tackle that has been outlawed by the NFL because the mechanics of the tackle can lead to significant lower body injuries in the player being tackled. Skattebo’s ankle gets caught in an awkward angle as he’s pulled down by the defender, causing the open dislocation. It was immediately obvious after the play that Skattebo needed medical attention, and players from both sides reacted to the disturbing injury. Trainers and team personnel quickly ran onto the field to assist, and Skattebo was eventually taken off the field on a cart with his leg in an aircast.
You can see video of the injury below.
Skattebo underwent surgery later that day and remained in the hospital overnight. Reports suggest that he is doing well given the circumstances.
Dr. Silverman Breaks Down Skattebo’s Injury
This is a clear external rotation injury that resulted in an open dislocation of the right ankle. A number of different areas are usually impacted or injured in this type of injury. It’s likely that Skattebo is dealing with:
- Deltoid ligament aversion
- Capsule injury
- Syndesmosis disruption
- Fibula fracture
I haven’t seen all the X-rays, but it’s a common mechanism when this type of force is applied in such a manner. Emergency surgery would be required in this case, and it’s clear from the reports that Skattebo has already undergone a successful procedure.
As for his recovery, he will likely be partially weight bearing withing a couple of weeks. Patients tend to be full weight bearing around the 6-8 week mark post-op, but he’ll still have a long way to go in his recovery. Running by the 3-month mark would be ideal, but his ankle will likely still be a little sore and swollen, and it will take even longer to get back to his new normal. Given that the Giants are all but officially eliminated from playoff contention, it seems obvious that the team will play it safe with Skattebo and keep him out for the remainder of the year. He will have plenty of time during the offseason to continue his rehabilitation program, and he should have no problem being back to full health by the time next year’s season rolls around.
We wish him the best of luck with his recovery program!