Whether you play pick up at your local park or you’re trying to become the next Michael Jordan, basketball injuries can happen to anyone no matter what skill level you play at. This fast-paced sport and quick Basketball maneuvers put a great deal of stress on the feet and ankles, and for that reason, makes them very common in basketball. Foot and ankle injuries can affect the ligaments, tendons, and bones, and can sideline a basketball player for weeks.
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in basketball. Basketball players can sprain an ankle if the foot twists or rolls beyond its normal range of motion, stretching the ligaments. An ankle sprain can damage the fibers of the ligament and even cause it to tear partially or completely. This can result in tenderness, swelling, pain, and instability in the ankle. It is unlikely that surgery would be needed for an ankle sprain. Dr. Robert Warkala tells patients “The R.I.C.E Method which involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation works well for treating an ankle sprain”.
Playing Basketball puts stress on the feet, which can often lead to injuries. One of the most commonly injured areas in the foot is the plantar fascia, this is a long, ligament-like structure that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the front of the foot. The plantar fascia can become inflamed with repetitive activity, such as running or walking. Plantar fasciitis causes pain at the bottom of the foot in the heel area. Dr. Frank Oware says that dealing with Plantar Fasciitis “Can take some time for symptoms to completely go away, but surgery is rarely needed. Nonsurgical treatment includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and exercises that stretch the calves and plantar fascia. In some cases, cortisone injections and special shoe inserts may be recommended”.
After discussing these common injuries with both Doctors it was clear that stretching before and a light warm-up are two easy ways to prevent these injuries from occurring. If these injuries occur should occur, you will want to schedule an appointment with Cornerstone Foot and Ankle as soon as possible.