Terry Sawchuk's Sports Injuries

Type of Sport: Ice Hockey

Terry Sawchuk's Sports Injuries Table

Type Area Date Consequences Content How It Happened Recovery Duration Rehabilitation Details Impact On Career Psychological Impact Previous Injuries Return To Competition Severity Treatment Medical Staff Long Term Impact Preventive Measures Competition Missed Initial Symptoms Re Injury Risk Support System Rehabilitation Location
Fractures Face 1970-01-01 Multiple facial fractures, including a broken cheekbone. Terry Sawchuk was known for playing without a mask for a significant part of his career. This incident was one of many that contributed to his decision to eventually wear a mask. Terry Sawchuk was hit in the face by a puck during a game. 8 weeks Underwent surgery to repair the fractures and had to wear a protective mask upon his return. He became more cautious and started using a mask regularly. Increased anxiety about facial injuries, leading to a change in playing style. Multiple previous facial injuries, including cuts and bruises. 1966-03-01 High Surgery and protective gear. Team doctors and surgeons. Permanent facial scars and occasional pain. Started wearing a protective mask. 10 games Severe pain, swelling, and bleeding. Moderate, mitigated by wearing a mask. Family, teammates, and medical staff. Team facilities and hospital.
Fractures Leg (Right) 1970-01-01 Broken tibia and fibula in the right leg. This injury was a significant setback for Sawchuk, sidelining him for a considerable period during the season. Terry Sawchuk collided with another player during a game, resulting in a broken right leg. 12 weeks Required surgery to insert a metal rod and extensive physical therapy. Missed a portion of the season but returned to form after recovery. Frustration due to the lengthy recovery process. None on the right leg. 1953-02-15 High Surgery and physical therapy. Orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists. Occasional pain and stiffness. Strengthening exercises and protective gear. 20 games Severe pain, inability to bear weight, and swelling. Low with proper care. Family, teammates, and medical staff. Team facilities and hospital.
Sprains Ankle (Left) 1970-01-01 Severe sprain with ligament damage. This injury occurred during a crucial part of the season, affecting his performance in subsequent games. Terry Sawchuk twisted his left ankle awkwardly during a game. 4 weeks Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), followed by physical therapy. Temporary decline in performance but no long-term effects. Concern about future ankle injuries. None on the left ankle. 1954-04-07 Moderate RICE and physical therapy. Team doctors and physical therapists. Occasional weakness in the ankle. Ankle braces and strengthening exercises. 5 games Pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Moderate, mitigated by preventive measures. Family, teammates, and medical staff. Team facilities.

Terry Sawchuk's Sports Injuries Videos

Hockey Without a Mask: The Tragic Fate of the Most Desperate Goalkeeper

April 15, 1967, Stanley Cup semifinals: Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Chicago Blackhawks. After the second period, the score is 2-2. Blackhawks' Bobby Hull, known for his powerful shot (190 km/h), faces Maple Leafs' goalkeeper, Terry Sawchuk, known for his uncompromising style and without a mask, resulting in numerous scars. Hull sends 14 shots, hitting Sawchuk's injured shoulder twice, but Sawchuk continues playing. After the match, a photo by Ralph Morse for Life magazine shows Sawchuk’s numerous injuries, emphasizing the harsh reality of pre-mask hockey. Sawchuk's career without a mask lasted 12 seasons, winning three Stanley Cups and being named the NHL's best goalkeeper three times. Despite his success, Sawchuk faced numerous injuries and personal tragedies, including the loss of his brothers and chronic health issues. His career was marked by dedication and resilience, but also physical and emotional pain. Sawchuk died at 40 after a fight with a teammate led to surgery complications. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1971.
Video thumb: Hockey Without a Mask: The Tragic Fate of the Most Desperate Goalkeeper

Goalie hit in the bare face

Harry Lumley was hit by a shot from Dick Duff.
Video thumb: Goalie hit in the bare face