Basketball is a fast paced game and because it involves a lot of repetitive movements, injuries are common. The most common basketball related injuries typically involve injuries to the wrist or ankle but it is possible to have injuries occur to other body parts as well. The physical therapists at Greater Therapy Centers understand sports related injuries and therefore can help develop an exercise plan specific to treating basketball injuries. Here’s what you need to know about some of the most common basketball injuries.
Typically a result of twisting or turning, an ankle sprain is a very common basketball injury. An ankle sprain is an injury to the soft tissue of the ankle, usually a ligament. Therapy may involve treating the swelling and pain with ice or electrical stimulation. At Greater Therapy Centers, physical therapy in Dallas/Fort Worth, your therapist may utilize techniques like joint mobilization or balance training to help increase movement and build the muscles around the ankle.
Achilles tendon problems are common among basketball players, or anyone involved in jumping sports. Injuries to the Achilles tendon may include bursitis, tendonitis, and Achilles tendon ruptures. Physical therapy treatment for these issues vary depending on the type of injury. Physical therapy for Achilles tendon injuries in Dallas/Fort Worth may include ultrasound or interferential current to decrease pain and swelling. Once the inflammation is under control your physical therapy for an Achilles tendon problem will focus on improving strength, flexibility, and proprioception or balance.
Mallet finger can occur when there is an injury to the distal interphalangeal joint, or tip of the finger. This is a common injury in basketball as it can occur when the tip of the finger is struck with a ball. If left untreated, the finger won’t be able to straighten all the way thus resulting in a permanent deformity. Non-surgical treatment options for mallet finger may include continuous splinting for six weeks.
Biceps tendonitis is inflammation of the tendon that attaches to the forearm or shoulder. This injury is typically due to overuse of the biceps. Physical therapy for biceps tendonitis can be very effective. The goal of physical therapy for biceps tendonitis is to decrease pain and inflammation. Therapy treatments may include electrical stimulation, or ultrasound, rest, massage, stretching and strengthening exercises as well as home exercises.
Quick and appropriate treatment for basketball injuries will help minimize the amount of time it takes to recover from a basketball related injury. You can always search “physical therapist near me” and since Greater Therapy Centers has more than 20 locations throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, we’re sure to show up. If you or a loved one is suffering from a basketball related injury, talk to your doctor and see if physical therapy would be beneficial. Give us a call today at (972) 420-6605 or email us at info@gtc-pt.com and get started on treatment for your basketball related injury.
