What Are the Top 3 Injuries in Basketball?

When playing basketball, you are at risk for a number of different injuries. Depending on the intensity of the game and your own personal playing style, you might be more susceptible to certain types of injuries than others.

However, there are three main types of injuries that are most commonly seen in basketball players:

1. Sprains and strains

2. Fractures

3. Dislocations

Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains are the most common type of injury seen in basketball players. A sprain is a stretching or tearing of a ligament, while a strain is a stretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon.

Both types of injuries can be caused by sudden changes in direction, falling, or contact with another player. They are often treated with ice, rest, and elevation. In more severe cases, you might need to wear a splint or brace, or even undergo surgery.

Most Common Types of Sprains and Strains

Ankle sprain: This is the most common type of sprain, and often happens when you roll your ankle.

Knee sprain: A knee sprain can occur when you hyperextend your knee or land awkwardly after a jump.

Achilles tendon strain: This type of strain occurs when the tendon that attaches your calf muscle to your heel bone is overstretched or torn. It is often seen in basketball players who make sudden stops or changes in direction.

How to Prevent Sprains and Strains

Warm up before playing: A good warm-up will help to increase blood flow to your muscles and tendons, making them less likely to be injured.

Stretch: Stretching before and after playing can help to keep your muscles and tendons flexible, reducing your risk of a sprain or strain.

Wear proper shoes: Wearing shoes that fit well and provide adequate support can help to prevent sprains and strains.

How to Treat Sprains and Strains

Let's now look at some of the specific ways you can treat each type of injury:

Ankle sprain: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) is the best way to treat an ankle sprain. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers to help reduce swelling and pain.

Knee sprain: RICE is also the best treatment for a knee sprain. You might also need to wear a brace or knee support to stabilize the joint and prevent further injury.

Achilles tendon strain: Achilles tendon strains are treated with RICE, as well as over-the-counter pain relievers. Physical therapy might also be recommended to help stretch and strengthen the Achilles tendon. Surgery is only necessary in severe cases.

Consider using CBD: CBD has been shown to help reduce inflammation, which can help to speed up the healing process if you do suffer a sprain or strain.

Fractures

A fracture is a break in a bone. It can be caused by a fall, direct blow, or excessive force.

Common Types of Fractures

Stress fracture: A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone that occurs from repetitive stress or overuse. It is common in basketball players who do not take enough time to rest between games or practices.

Compression fracture: A compression fracture happens when the bones are compressed, such as when you land on your back after a fall. This type of injury is more common in older adults with osteoporosis. However, it can also occur in young athletes if there is enough force applied to the bones.

How to Prevent Fractures

Get enough calcium and vitamin D: Calcium is essential for strong bones, while vitamin D helps your body to absorb calcium. Be sure to get enough of both through your diet or supplements.

Do weight-bearing exercises: Exercises that put stress on your bones can help to keep them strong and less likely to fracture. These includes activities such as walking, running, and jumping.

Take breaks: If you play basketball regularly, be sure to take a few days off each week to allow your body to recover. This will help to prevent stress fractures from occurring.

How to Treat Fractures

The best way to treat a fracture is to see a doctor. They will likely order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment. Treatment options include wearing a cast or splint, undergoing surgery, or taking pain relievers.

Dislocations

A dislocation occurs when the ends of your bones are forced out of their normal position. It can happen from a fall, direct blow, or sudden change in direction. Shoulder dislocations are the most common type of dislocation in basketball players.

Common Types of Dislocations

Shoulder dislocation: A shoulder dislocation occurs when the ball at the top of your arm bone (humerus) pops out of the socket. It is a common injury in basketball, particularly among players who fall on their outstretched arm.

Elbow dislocation: An elbow dislocation occurs when the bones in your forearm (ulna and radius) are forced out of position. It can happen if you land on your arm after a fall or receive a direct blow to the elbow.

How to Prevent Dislocations

Warm up: A good warm-up will help to increase blood flow to your muscles and joints, making them less likely to be injured.

Stretch: Stretching before and after playing can help to keep your muscles and tendons flexible, reducing your risk of a dislocation.

Wear proper gear: Wearing protective gear such as elbow and shoulder pads can help to reduce your risk of dislocating a joint.

How to Treat Dislocations

If you think you have dislocated a joint, it is important to see a doctor right away. They will likely need to put the bone back into place, which can be painful. You might also need to wear a splint or cast to keep the joint in place while it heals. Surgery is only necessary in severe cases.

And that's it. Stay safe out there and always remember to warm up before playing!