Basketball is a great sport to be involved in, as it’s a fun way to spend time with friends and family while getting in some important exercise. However, injuries can be pretty common when playing this sport. Whether you’re playing in March Madness or in your driveway, it’s important to understand the common injuries associated with this sport, how these are treated, and how to prevent them from happening.
The Five Most Common Types of Injuries Associated with Basketball:
- Ankle sprains
- Jammed fingers
- Knee injuries
- Stress fractures
- Overuse injuries
How These Injuries are Treated:
Ankle sprains are a common injury with this sport. Usually, sprains are treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Depending on the severity of the pain and sprain, Dr. Keith may recommend further treatment involving x-rays and further evaluation.
Jammed fingers happen often as the basketball comes in contact with the fingertips. In some cases, jammed fingers require a brace to completely heal correctly. However, if it’s a mild case, ice and rest will help to relieve pain from a jammed finger.
Because of the quick pivoting and twisting actions involved with basketball, knee injuries are also quite common. The severity and type of injury depends on the suggested treatment, however, if the injury is serious enough, surgery and physical therapy may be the best route of treatment to take. If the injury is mild, it’s important to rest and treat it with ice before returning to normal activity levels.
Stress fractures are often caused by a rapid increase of activity or overtraining. These are most commonly found in the feet or lower leg. If you’re experiencing a stress fracture, Dr. Keith will recommend a period of restricted-weight bearing and immobilization before you return to any kind of activity.
The fast-paced nature of basketball leads to many overuse injuries. These are most commonly treated by rest and ice. It’s important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, this will help to prevent any overuse injuries.
How to Prevent These Injuries:
- After a period of inactivity, make sure to gradually build up to activity.
- Maintain your fitness, injuries are more common in those who aren’t physically fit.
- Don’t skip your warm-up or cool-down.
- Follow a strength training program consistently to strengthen your leg muscles, which will better support your knees.
- Make sure you’re wearing the right shoes. Shoes that don’t fit well or are not supportive enough can lead to injuries.
- If recommended by your physician, wear proper braces during activity to ensure stability.
- Allow proper rest and recovery for your body after strenuous activity.
Schedule Your Appointment
Don’t let pain slow you down. If you’re experiencing pain that’s keeping you from being active, Dr. Keith can help. He is experienced in sports medicine and is passionate about getting you back to your active life. To schedule your appointment with him, give us a call at 435-774-8511.
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