Fox Cities News

Basketball players, regardless of age or skill level, should prepare to tackle a common adversary: injuries. Dr. Andrew Leung, a Sports Medicine Physician at ThedaCare Medical Center-Orthopedic, Spine and Pain, emphasized the prevalence of injuries in basketball.

"Ankle and knee injuries are some of the most common basketball-related injuries we see," said Dr. Leung. He also noted other frequent issues such as jammed fingers, wrist injuries, calf or shin problems, Achilles tendonitis or tears, and thigh bruises.

Dr. Leung explained that ankle sprains often occur when players' feet are stepped on or rolled over during intense play under the hoop. Knee injuries can result from the sport's dynamic movements like jumping and quick turns. These include anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, meniscus tears, and patellar tendonitis.

"Depending on the severity, ACL and meniscus tears may heal with rest and therapy, though surgery is sometimes necessary," Dr. Leung stated. "Patellar tendonitis results from overuse and can heal with rest and ice."

He advised immediate first aid for knee injuries: resting the joint, applying ice, using a compression wrap, and elevating the injured area above the heart.

"If a player, coach, or parent suspects injury, it’s important to seek evaluation with a medical professional or licensed athletic trainer if available," he said. "Playing through pain oftentimes makes the injury worse."

Concussions are another concern in basketball. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), contact sports like basketball account for 45% of emergency department visits for sports- and recreation-related traumatic brain injuries among children aged 17 and younger.

The CDC reported that nearly two-thirds of concussions in high school boys playing basketball result from athlete collisions; half occur similarly among girls.

"It’s crucial to follow protocols when a concussion is suspected," Dr. Leung stressed. In schools, licensed athletic trainers can evaluate concussions immediately while sports medicine physicians oversee treatment and return-to-play decisions.

Dr. Leung recommended preventive measures such as warming up with dynamic stretching before games or practice sessions; cooling down afterward with static stretching; engaging in strength training focusing on core muscles; wearing suitable footwear; taping weak ankles; using protective gear like mouth guards.

“Playing basketball or any sport is an excellent way to stay in shape while having fun,” he remarked. “Taking precautions will help players avoid injury so they can keep enjoying the game.”

Despite precautions taken by athletes against potential harm during gameplay activities—injuries do happen occasionally without warning signs beforehand—ThedaCare Orthopedic Walk-in Care offers expert orthopedic care without appointments required Monday through Friday between 7 am -7 pm & weekends starting at 7 am until closing time at three o'clock sharp!