Sports, such as basketball, can take a large toll on our bodies. From training season to game day, our bodies are pushed to the limits. According to NATA, 22% of college basketball players report injuries every season. This month, we are discussing some of these common basketball injuries and their physical therapy treatments.
Jammed Fingers:
Jammed fingers are a common basketball injury. When the ball is flying around on the court sometimes it catches your finger wrong and can injure tendons in the fingers and hand. Typical treatment for this kind of hand injury is to ice the injury to help reduce swelling in the fingers or hands. Another common treatment for jammed fingers is using buddy tape on the injured fingers to stabilize them to one another to avoid further injury.
Jumper’s Knee:
Basketball puts a large strain on the lower body and can cause an injury called jumper’s knee. This injury is caused by strain on the knee joint from overuse and jumping on hard surfaces, such as a wooden basketball court. A common treatment for this injury is resting and icing the knee to help reduce swelling and promote healing in the knee joint. Keeping your knee elevated while you sleep will help to prevent further swelling. Lastly, massage the injured area to help relax tense muscles and stretch to improve physical function and flexibility of the joints and muscles
Sprained Ankle:
A sprained ankle is a very common injury usually occurring when an athlete doesn’t have proper footing when landing from a jump. The recommended treatment for this is to stay off of the injured ankle for a few days and ice the inflamed area to help with the swelling. After a couple of days of rest, try simple exercises to stretch and strengthen the ankle. This will help get you back to your full range of motion. Ankle stability exercises can help prevent future injuries by strengthening the muscles.
Muscle Strain or Back Pain:
Muscle strain or back pain is likely to happen when a lot of stress is placed on the back muscles when playing basketball. Common treatment for back-related injuries are massages, as they are one of the best methods for loosening tight muscles in the upper and lower back, stretching to help loosen up tight muscles in the lower back and shoulders and prevent future injuries and of course, staying off your feet and resting the area will help the muscles relax and heal.
The Lattimore Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation Network was founded by Physical Therapists John and Cindy Shuman in 1992. Since then Lattimore has grown to 20+ locations in 4 different counties.
What’s unique about Lattimore is our patient experience. We tailor your 1:1 treatment around your individual needs, conditions and goals. With us, you’re more than just a number. You’re a member of our local community and we’re invested in your success. Call (585) 582-0007 to experience The Lattimore Way!
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