Somewhat self-explanatory a basketball injury is any physical harm or damage sustained by a player during a game or practice. These include sprains, strains, fractures, cuts, bruises, concussions, dislocated joints, and more. 

Injuries can occur as a result of contact with other players, falls, overuse, or improper technique during physical activity. Players need to take the proper precautions to reduce the risk of injury such as wearing protective gear, stretching before activity, and seeking medical attention if they experience pain or discomfort during or after a game or practice. Medical attention is important to diagnose and treat an injury as soon as possible to help ensure a quicker recovery and reduce the risk of future complications.

Most Common College Basketball Injuries

As with any competitive sport injuries happen, here are some of the most common in college basketball, the impact on their game, and how to treat them. 

Sprained Ankles – 

• This occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn. 
• Depending on the severity, a sprained ankle can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot, making it difficult to run, jump, and pivot.
• It is usually treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) followed by physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength.

Knee Injuries (ACL, MCL tears) – 

• The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and MCL (medial collateral ligament) are important stabilizing ligaments in the knee. Tears can occur from sudden changes of direction or impact on the knee. 
• Knee injuries can result in pain, swelling, and instability in the knee, making it difficult to run, jump, and pivot. 
• Treatment typically involves surgery and physical therapy to regain strength and stability.

Groin Pulls – 

• A groin pull is a strain of the muscles in the inner thigh. 
• A groin pull can result in pain and difficulty with running, jumping, and pivoting.
• It is treated with rest, ice, and physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility.

Hamstring Strains – 

• This is a strain or tear of the muscles in the back of the thigh. 
• A hamstring strain can result in pain and difficulty with running, jumping, and pivoting.
• It is treated with rest, ice, and physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility.

Concussions – 

• A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head. 
• A concussion can cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, and difficulty with concentration and memory.
• Treatment involves rest and a gradual return to activity as approved by a doctor.

Finger Injuries (dislocations, fractures) – 

• These occur from falls, jams, or collisions on the court. 
• These injuries can result in pain and difficulty with ball handling and shooting.
• Treatment for a dislocation involves reduction (putting the bone back in place) and immobilization, while treatment for a fracture involves immobilization and possibly surgery.

Shoulder Injuries (dislocations, rotator cuff strains) – 

• Dislocations occur when the upper arm bone pops out of the socket. Rotator cuff strains arise from overuse or injury to the muscles and tendons in the shoulder. 
• Shoulder injuries can result in pain, weakness, and instability in the shoulder, impacting a player’s ability to shoot, pass, and defend.
• Treatment for both may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and possibly surgery.

Wrist Injuries (sprains, fractures) – 

• Sprains occur when the ligaments in the wrist are stretched or torn. Fractures occur when a bone in the wrist breaks. 
• Wrist injuries can result in pain and difficulty with ball handling and shooting
• Treatment for both typically involves immobilization and physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion.

Stress Fractures – 

• These are small cracks in a bone caused by repetitive stress or overuse. 
• Stress fractures can result in pain and difficulty with running, jumping, and pivoting.
• Treatment typically involves rest and immobilization, followed by physical therapy to regain strength.

Back Injuries (strains, herniated discs) – 

• Strains occur when the muscles or tendons in the back are stretched or torn. Herniated discs occur when the soft material inside a spinal disc bulges out and puts pressure on the spinal nerves. 
• Back injuries can result in pain and difficulty with running, jumping, and pivoting
• Treatment for strains may include rest, ice, and physical therapy, while treatment for herniated discs may include rest, physical therapy, and possibly surgery.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have sustained an injury and to follow a proper rehabilitation program to ensure a full and safe recovery.

Basketball Injury Prevention

To mitigate the risk of injury here are some things you can do to potentially prevent injury with examples!

Warm-up and Stretching –

• Proper warm-up and stretching before playing can help reduce the risk of injury by increasing blood flow, flexibility, and range of motion.
• Warm-up exercises include dynamic stretching, jogging, and jump rope. 
• Stretching exercises include calf, hamstring, and quad stretches.

Strength Training –  

• Building strength in the muscles used for basketball can help prevent injury and improve overall performance.
• Strength training exercises include squats, lunges, and calf raises for lower body strength, push-ups, pull-ups, and bench press for upper body strength.

Footwear – 

• Wearing proper, supportive sneakers with good shock absorption can help reduce the risk of ankle sprains and knee injuries.
• Supportive sneakers include those with a sturdy, supportive sole, good shock absorption, and good arch support.

Hydration – 

• Staying hydrated before, during, and after games and practices can help reduce the risk of injury by maintaining good joint and muscle function.
• Drinking water before, during, and after games and practices can help maintain hydration levels.

Rest and Recovery – 

• Adequate rest and recovery time is vital to reduce the risk of overuse injuries, such as stress fractures.
• Rest and recovery activities include getting adequate sleep, ice therapy, and massage therapy.

Protective Equipment – 

• Wearing protective gear, such as knee pads, wrist braces, and mouthguards can help reduce the risk of injury.

Proper Technique – 

• Learning and using proper techniques for jumping, landing, and cutting can help reduce the risk of injury, especially for knee and ankle injuries.
• Proper technique can be learned and executed through consistent practice and targeted drills to develop knowledge, skill, and muscle memory.

Coaching and Training – 

• Proper coaching and training can help players understand the risk of injury and prevention to reduce the risk of injury.
• Proper coaching and training include drills and exercises that focus on proper technique, as well as drills that focus on reducing the risk of injury.

Conditioning – 

• Conditioning can help players build endurance and stamina, reducing the risk of injury from fatigue.
• Conditioning exercises include running, cycling, and swimming.

Medical Attention – 

• Seeking prompt medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor, can help prevent further damage and promote healing.
• Prompt medical attention includes visiting a doctor or physical therapist for any injuries, even if they seem minor. 
• A doctor or physical therapist can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a plan for treatment and rehabilitation.

As we know injuries are common in competitive sports and as we’ve discussed there are things you can do to decrease the odds of injury. 

Take some time before you get in the game to protect yourself from these common injuries!