The game of basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world for a good reason. It is easy to set up, all you need is a ball and a hoop, and you can play it. Also, it is one of the most exciting sports, as many games are decided at the last moment. However, like almost every sport out there, the game of basketball has its own set of risks. There are a lot of things that can go wrong during the game, and today we are going to explore some of them. So, what are some of the most common professional basketball injuries, and what can you do to prevent them?
Ankle injury
Anyone who has played basketball knows how awful ankle injuries can be. When that kind of injury happens to a player during the game or training, it is almost certain that the player will need at least two or three days’ rest for the injury to heal. And that is the best-case scenario!
caption: Ankle injuries are among the most common professional basketball injuries.
alt: Swollen ankle.
Some ankle injuries can end careers! Serious injury can seriously damage the ankle, tearing up the ligaments, or even smashing the cartilage and the bones.
Ankle injuries often happen when a player is on a downwards trajectory after a jump, especially when fighting for a ball against bigger players. Also, ankle injuries are common during the opponent’s crossover, and if a player breaks an ankle during that move, that can also demoralize the team and boost the confidence of the opposing players.
So, what can you do to prevent this injury? For starters, you have to have shoes that are deep enough to cover your ankle. Also, your shoes have to be tied well. Moreover, it is important to stretch your ankles before every demanding physical activity, especially before matches and training.
Knee injuries
Knee injuries can be even more dangerous than ankle injuries, depending on the injury itself. However, it is well known how horrible can knee injuries be. All of us remember the moment Derrick Rose injured his knee after landing. One of the most promising players in the world at the time was hospitalized and eventually traded out of Chicago Bulls. Even though Derrick Rose is still one of the best players in the league, we are left to wonder how magnificent his career could be if not for that horrible landing. Experts say that his body simply couldn’t withstand the power his muscles had.
So, what can we learn from this? Of course, every game is a risk, and no injury is entirely preventable. Some players like to use knee braces for protection, but trainers from dubaipt.com say that that is not always effective. Like with ankles, you have to stretch well before the workout and the game. Also, you should know your limits. We understand that the drive to be the best player possible is in every baller, but you have to understand that you will be trading your potentially glorious career for a few moments of fame.
Back injuries
Back injuries are potentially the most dangerous injuries a player can sustain on the court. Thankfully, they are not that common.
An unfortunate landing or a strong elbow hit from behind can seriously damage the back or spine. Spinal injuries are the worst, as the spine area can be sensitive. This is why it is so important to do a proper back exercise before training and seek medical assistance if you have any doubts.
Finger injuries
One of the most common injuries on the field are definitely finger injuries. It is almost too easy to injure your finger during the game. One bad catching or one unfortunate slip or touch can make your finger jam. After that injury, you’ll have to watch your team from the sidelines or be with medical assistance.
Finger jamming is not that dangerous though. Almost every kid on the block who has played basketball suffered from a jammed finger, and most of them are all good today.
caption: Finger jamming can often happen even during the 1on1 game.
alt: Man standing with a basketball.
What can be dangerous are broken fingers. Most of the time that can happen when players fall and land on their fingers. This is an awful injury and can put you out of the game for quite some time. Also, it hurts like hell.
So, if you want to prepare properly for your basketball season, make sure to take good care of your fingers!
Foot fractures
This one is nasty. The fractured foot can be a career-ending injury. The human foot consists of 26 bones and 30 joints, and all of them can be injured, often more than one.
This injury can happen in multiple ways. Often players get their foot fractured when a big player lands where they shouldn’t. This can be dangerous for both players.
Your whole body needs to be warmed up properly before every physical activity, and you have to pay special attention to your feet. They are most prone to injuries, so make sure to warm them up and stretch them properly before and after the match or exercise. This is certainly one of the reasons why LeBron James has been on the court for such a long time. He invests in his health, and he doesn’t skip the leg day!
Prevention
Eat well, sleep well, exercise well! Those are the ways to avert potential injuries. Also, it would be a good idea to ask for medical assistance whenever you have any suspicions about possible injuries.
caption: If you want to avoid professional basketball injuries, make sure to warm up well and seek medical assistance whenever you have any doubts!
alt: People playing basketball.
Massage sessions are also a good way to prevent injuries, as they can help your muscles relax. Tense muscles are never a good thing, especially in sports.
This concludes our pick of the most common professional basketball injuries. Make sure to do everything in your power to prevent possible injuries!
https://www.pexels.com/photo/silhouette-of-men-playing-basketball-69773/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-holding-a-ball-6292444/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-wearing-white-and-black-nike-athletic-shoes-7298422/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-standing-near-basketball-hoop-holding-a-basketbal-3534924/