Common Basketball Injuries and How to Avoid Them

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Basketball is one of the most popular sports in America. Many school yards or community parks have an old basketball hoop and there always seems to be a friendly pick-up game going on at any given time. Unfortunately, it is also a physically demanding sport that can lead to various injuries.

There are two main types of injuries associated with the sport of basketball those being overuse and acute injuries. Overuse injuries develop over time and are caused by stress on the joints, soft tissue and muscles. They begin small and grow into a larger problem if they are not treated early. Traumatic or acute injuries occur due to a sudden impact or force.

The following are the most common injuries seen in regards to basketball and how to prevent them.

Overuse Injuries:

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

This is an irritation and swelling of the tendons in the shoulder. It is also occasionally referred to as swimmer's shoulder or tennis shoulder. It occurs when there is repetitive over-the-head motion as is often seen in basketball. To prevent this injury, athletes are encouraged to develop shoulder strength in opposing muscle groups.

Achilles Tendonitis

This injury occurs gradually and is primarily caused by the overuse of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is the largest and most vulnerable tendon in the body. It stretches from the calf to the lower leg and then to the heel of the foot. Experts believe Achilles Tendonitis can be prevented by strengthening the gastrocnemius, soleus and the Achilles muscles.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is simply the inflammation of the tendons due to irritation. It is caused by repetitive movements, missed steps, impacts and falls. When inflamed, the smooth motion of the tendons becomes painful.

In regards to athletes, tendonitis often occurs when the tendon is stretched beyond its normal range of motion. To prevent this common injury, athletes should maintain a training schedule that includes varied intensities and durations as well as stretching before games.

Two common acute injuries:

Hamstring Injuries

Hamstring injuries occur when an athlete accelerates or decelerates rapidly with powerful motion, and it often accompanies running. When a hamstring injury occurs, its causes a sudden sharp pain in the back of thigh. Hamstring injuries are classified from mild to severe depending on how severely the muscle is injured. Total prevention of a hamstring injury is almost impossible; however, experts agree performing warming ups before a workout or game, which activates the glutes and lengthens the hip flexors, can help immensely.

Wrist Sprain

A wrist sprain often occurs as a result of a fall on an outstretched hand, which tears the ligaments in the wrist. Wrist sprains are classified from mild to severe with mild being a micro tear of the ligaments and severe being a complete tear of the ligaments. Wearing a wrist guard or other protective gear can help prevent wrist sprains in some cases. However, in many instances, these injuries just simply are part of the game and cannot be prevented.

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