As the New England Patriots navigate a growing list of injuries, University Orthopedics sports medicine surgeon Brett Owens, MD, joined 12 Sports’ Sam Knox to offer expert insight into several injuries affecting NFL players and the challenges of returning to the field.

Christian Gonzalez and Mack Hollins are among the sizeable list of players on both sides of the ball who, as of Thursday, were listed as questionable.

During the interview, Dr. Owens discussed shoulder instability, calf injuries, and high ankle sprains, explaining why some injuries require particularly careful management to prevent further damage.

Shoulder Injuries and the Risk of Reinjury

One of the primary concerns discussed was Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez and his shoulder injury.

Dr. Owens explained that shoulder instability is particularly common in football and other collision sports. Because the shoulder is one of the body’s most mobile joints, it is also vulnerable to dislocations and partial dislocations, known as subluxations.

For athletes with a history of shoulder surgery, like Gonzalez, recurrent instability can be especially concerning, particularly when tackling or absorbing contact.

Why Calf Injuries Can Be Complicated

Dr. Owens also addressed wide receiver Mack Hollins’ calf injury, stressing the importance of allowing adequate recovery time.

He explained that calf injuries can be challenging because the muscles function across both the knee and ankle joints. Returning to competition prematurely can increase the risk of reinjury or potentially contribute to more serious problems, including Achilles tendon injuries.

High Ankle Sprains May Require Longer Recovery

Another topic was the recovery process for AJ Brown’s high ankle sprain, which can be significantly more challenging than traditional ankle sprains.

Despite reports that Brown, who has been on injured reserve since Week 1, has been seen walking around the locker room without a boot or noticeable limp, Dr. Owens cautioned that these signs do not necessarily mean the injury has healed enough for a safe return to competition.

While some athletes with minor ankle sprains can return relatively quickly with appropriate bracing or taping, Dr. Owens noted that high ankle sprains can sometimes require four to eight weeks of recovery.