Basketball has become an excessively physical, high-speed sport which hardly resembles the game initially created by Dr. James Naismith in 1881. The game’s fast pace wreaks havoc on players’ bodies and has an increasingly high possibility of inflicting injury.
There are an estimated 1.6 million injuries suffered each year by basketball players as a result of the modern style of the game.
There are, however, a few injuries that affect more basketball players annually than any other. We have highlighted the most common injuries in basketball, how they can be treated, and prevented.
Ankle Sprains
Doctors treat ankle sprains with ice, compression, and rest. A physician will order an X-ray on a case-by-case basis depending on the severity of the injury.
Most ankle sprains involve severe swelling and pain. If the problem persists, doctors will pursue further evaluation.
The best way to prevent ankle sprains when playing basketball is to stay hydrated, and wear properly fitting, comfortable shoes.
Jammed Fingers
When a ball hits the tip of a player’s finger, it usually causes swelling and pain around a single joint. This is known as a jammed finger.
Doctors treat jammed fingers with ice and will tape players’ fingers together to allow them to effectively play through the injury.
If the pain and swelling persists for a week or more, doctors will order further treatment such as an X-ray or an MRI.
Knee Injuries
When basketball players perform quick cutting maneuvers during the course of play, they are putting their knee ligaments at risk.
The most common knee injuries include medial-collateral ligament and anterior-cruciate ligament sprains and tears. If a player sprains their MCL or ACL, doctors will treat the injury with knee braces, ice, and physical therapy. ACL and MCL tears require surgery and extensive physical therapy, which could last a year or more before players can return to the game.
The most effective way to prevent basketball injuries is to have a physical examination before the season begins.
Sports trainers also recommend that players pay attention to their surroundings and their environment. For example, if they are playing in a hot or humid environment, they must stay hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Players should not wait until they are thirsty to start hydrating their bodies. Proper fitness is also key to preventing injuries since basketball is a physically demanding sport.
There is always a risk of suffering an injury even if you do take the necessary precautions.
If your injury was suffered due to someone else’s negligence, contact After Personal Injury to get paired with an experienced personal injury attorney in your area.
There are instances where your sports injury could have even been the fault of the individuals responsible for maintaining the facility.
In this instance, it will be helpful to have a personal injury attorney on your side to help you pursue legal action. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
