Lawn Safety: How Real Grass Can Help Reduce Injuries

The debate between real grass and artificial turf has been raging for years, particularly in sports. The long-standing question is: Which surface is safer? As we dig deeper into this question, we see patterns emerge as we look back at injury rates.

While many factors influence injuries in contact sports like football, soccer, field hockey, and lacrosse—including player age, physical condition, and weather—there’s no denying that the surface beneath an athlete’s feet plays a crucial role.

Artificial Turf vs. Grass Injuries: Key Takeaways

• Research has consistently shown higher foot, ankle, and lower extremity injury rates on artificial turf than on natural grass. Studies suggest up to 69% more non-contact foot and ankle injuries on turf. Professional athletes are vocal advocates for grass, citing its softer, more forgiving nature.
• Natural grass provides safety advantages, such as impact absorption and reduced abrasions. Its natural give can help prevent joint and muscle injuries caused by sudden movements. Additionally, grass offers cooling properties that reduce heat-related illnesses, making it a superior choice for active play.
• Bethel Farms offers high-quality grass sod for sale in Central Florida. Sod establishes quickly, ensuring a lush, safe playing surface that cushions impact.

Real Grass and Artificial Turf Surface Difference

A previous review looked at 53 studies on injuries in professional and amateur sports published between 1972 and 2020. It found a higher rate of foot and ankle injuries on artificial turf, both old and new generations, than on natural grass. One study, in particular, analyzed 4,801 NFL foot and leg injuries between 2012 and 2016. The data revealed 16% more injuries per play on artificial turf than on grass.

Professional athletes are paying attention—and speaking up. Many NFL players are advocating for natural grass fields. They know firsthand how artificial turf is harder, more abrasive, and takes a toll on their bodies. According to NFL injury data from 2012 to 2018, players experienced a 28% higher rate of non-contact lower extremity injuries on turf than grass. Non-contact knee injuries occurred 32% more often, and non-contact foot and ankle injuries were 69% more likely on turf. These statistics highlight the harsh, long-term consequences of synthetic surfaces.

How Injuries Happen is A Matter of Physics

Let's explore the science behind these injuries. When athletes—particularly in high-intensity sports like football or soccer—exert force on a field, their movements generate extreme torque and pressure. If the surface can't absorb or disperse this force, the body suffers.

Think of jamming a flimsy yardstick into soft dirt. The dirt moves, bending the yardstick without breaking it. Now, imagine planting that same yardstick into concrete. The yardstick has no give, and with enough force, it snaps. This is what happens to athletes on artificial turf.

The sudden movements required in sports—running, jumping, and pivoting—put significant stress on joints. On natural grass, the surface’s give can make all the difference. However, on synthetic turf, the rigid, unforgiving nature of the material leaves players more susceptible to tears, sprains, and fractures.

Common Injuries on Artificial Turf

In addition to foot and ankle injuries, athletes are also more likely to suffer knee injuries, concussions, heat-related illnesses, and abrasions on turf. The surface’s hardiness makes players more prone to concussions, while its heat retention can lead to dangerous heat-related conditions. Additionally, the abrasive texture of turf causes painful scrapes and burns.

The physics of play tells us that real grass, with its natural give, can be a lifesaver. When athletes cut, sprint, or change direction, natural grass gives way, reducing the risk of injury. On the other hand, artificial turf is rigid, leaving little room for the cleat to release. This difference forces the player’s feet, ankles, and knees to absorb more impact, making serious injuries more likely.

The Benefits of Real Grass: Safety Through Nature

Real grass offers a level of protection that synthetic turf cannot replicate. Its natural cushioning helps grass absorb impact, making it less likely for athletes to suffer injuries from sudden, sharp movements. The softness of grass reduces abrasions and allows for safer playing surfaces, particularly in contact sports where falls and collisions are common. The stories you hear from athletes—how their knees feel better and their bodies less battered after playing on grass—aren’t simply anecdotes; they’re backed by data.

Even professional sports organizations are taking notice. Teams like the Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Cleveland Browns successfully maintain real grass fields in cold climates, proving that natural grass can be a viable option anywhere. Indoor stadiums aren’t a barrier, either. Teams like the Arizona Cardinals and Las Vegas Raiders have found ways to keep natural grass surfaces indoors.

Where Things Can Go Wrong and Overcoming Challenges

Poor maintenance can turn a lush field into a hazard despite its safety benefits. When a grass field isn't properly cared for, divots and uneven patches can lead to tripping and slipping. Soil compaction can also make the surface less forgiving. Additionally, players who lose their balance on wet grass can still suffer muscle injuries. However, these problems are preventable. Consistent maintenance and proper field management can reduce these risks.

How Grass Sod Can Contribute to Lawn Safety

What does all this mean for homeowners deciding between natural grass and artificial turf for their lawns? If safety is a concern—whether for your kids, pets, or even yourself—natural grass remains a superior option. But maintenance is key. A healthy, well-maintained lawn provides better cushioning and reduces the risk of slips or trips. Laying grass sod is one practical solution for achieving a lush, resilient lawn. Grass sod establishes quickly and creates a dense, safe turf that is eco-friendly and highly effective.

As homeowners, you can take a page from the professional sports playbook. By prioritizing lawn health and investing in solutions like grass sod installation, you can maintain a beautiful, injury-reducing yard. Real grass, with its natural give and cooling properties, may be the best way to protect those who play on it—no matter their age or activity level.

Final Thoughts

The debate between real grass and artificial turf will likely continue. Still, the benefits of natural grass are backed by data and supported by professional players claiming it is safer. By understanding the advantages of real grass and the importance of proper maintenance, we can make smarter choices for our lawns and, ultimately, our well-being. Nature’s design has kept us safe for centuries. Why change it now?

Bethel Farms is a trusted sod farm in Central Florida, offering high-quality warm-season grass sod for installation, designed to match lawn safety with aesthetics. With benefits like faster establishment, natural cushioning, and improved cooling properties, our sod grass is an excellent option for creating a safe and vibrant outdoor space.

Visit our website to explore our wide range of grass solutions for sod installation.