Like other athletes, basketball players may sustain acute injuries from trauma, such as from a fall or from contact with another player. These athletes are also susceptible to overuse injuries, which can be exacerbated by delaying rest and treatment for the injuries. In many cases, basketball players are diagnosed with a sports injury that affects a joint, especially in the lower body. Some of the most commonsports injuriesthat an orthopedist may diagnose in basketball injuries include sprains, fractures, and tendonitis.
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are a commoninjury that involves damage to the ligament. Sprains can develop when a basketball player twists the foot, such as when landing from a jump. One or more ligaments can become hyperextended, causing pain and swelling. In severe cases, the ligament may tear completely. This is known as a grade three sprain and it typically causes instability of the joint and significant swelling. Basketball players may hear a “popping” sound when the injury occurs. The treatment for an ankle sprain can range from immobilization and physical therapy to surgical reconstruction.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are overuse injuries that may develop when a basketball player fails to get sufficient rest while training or suddenly and significantly increases the intensity of training. Basketball players tend to develop stress fractures in the lower leg and foot. If an orthopedist diagnoses a stress fracture, the patient will likely be advised to rest and avoid placing weight on the affected limb until it heals completely.
Tendonitis
Another example of an overuse injury is Achilles tendonitis. The Achilles tendon connects the heel bone to the calf muscles. It may sustain damage from activities such as jumping and running. Achilles tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendon, which can cause pain and stiffness along the tendon and at the back of the heel. Rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and perhaps surgical repair may be necessary.
AtAble Orthopedic & Sports Medicine, amateur and professional athletes alike will find a full suite of sports injury services. Our orthopedic specialist in Queens can help you get back on your feet after suffering tendonitis, stress fractures, sprains, and all other types of sports injuries. Give us a call at (347) 537-2404.
