Here are the most common injuries in basketball:
Sprained Ankles. Probably the most common injury in basketball is a sprained ankle. Shooting hoops involves running around and jumping a lot. If a player rolls their ankle awkwardly while rolling, the ankle may roll backward, beyond its normal range of motion. This can cause major damage to your ankle. Depending on the force you put on your ankle, the ligaments that hold it together can become torn, causing an injury.
ACL Injuries. The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, is a ligament that helps stabilize the knee. When this ligament tears, it can cause a lot of pain and damage to the knee. ACL injuries usually occur when there is a sudden change in direction or a landing from a jump. These movements can put a lot of stress on the knee and cause the ACL to tear.
Broken or Jammed Fingers. Basketball is a team sport, and just like most team sports, players will pass the ball a lot. During a game, a lot is going on, so it’s easy to miss the path of a ball coming your way. When a ball hits the tip of your finger, it can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty grasping objects.
Achilles Tendon Injuries. Achilles tendon injuries can occur when the tendon is overstretched or torn. This can happen suddenly, such as when a player makes a sudden change in direction or over time from repetitive stress on the tendon.
Calf Muscle Strain. Another injury frequently occurs in basketball is a calf strain, which happens when athletes suddenly accelerate, jump, or run very fast. Calf strains can cause sudden pain in the bottom of the leg and a popping or pulling sensation.
Wrist Injuries. Many ligaments and tendons hold your wrist together, and injuries such as sprains and tears are common. When players fall on their hands while they are still holding something in their hands, they can seriously hurt their wrists.
Our team is here to help
Are you looking for orthopedic services in Merrillville, Highland, Hobart, or Valparaiso after a basketball injury? Bone & Joint Specialists can help you get back on the court as soon as possible if you suffer from any bone or joint-related basketball injury. Contact us today at 219-795-3360 to learn more about injury prevention or to schedule an appointment!
