Treatments For Common Basketball Injuries

Basketball, a fast-paced and high-intensity sport, comes with a risk of injury. Whether you’re a professional player or a weekend warrior, understanding common injuries and the appropriate treatments is crucial for quick recovery and continued play. From sprains to strains, knowing how to address these injuries can make a big difference in getting back on the court safely.

A study by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association reveals how frequently basketball injuries occur—especially in youth athletes:

• 22% of all male basketball players sustained at least one time-loss injury each year.
• 42% of the injuries were to the ankle/foot
• 11% of the injuries were to the hip and thigh
• 9% of the injuries were to the knee
• Sprains were the most common type of injury (43%).
• General trauma was the second most common type of injury (22%).
• 60% percent of the injuries occurred during practice highlighting the need to warm up and strap for training.
• 59% of game-related injuries occurred during the second half of the game, which identifies fatigue as a predisposing factor.

These statistics emphasize the importance of injury prevention, proper warm-up routines, and targeted rehabilitation.

Ankle Sprain

Overview

Ankle sprains occur when the ankle is twisted or rolled awkwardly, stretching or tearing the surrounding ligaments. They’re especially common in basketball due to quick direction changes and jumping.

​Symptoms	Treatment​
Ankle pain, specifically on the outside of the ankle Swelling, tenderness, bruising Difficulty walking or putting weight on the foot	Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (R.I.C.E) in the first 48 hours Supportive footwear or ankle bracing Physical therapy to restore strength and stability

Prevention

• Wear basketball-specific shoes with good ankle support
• Avoid returning to play before full recovery

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in recovery from an ankle sprain. Talk with your doctor or physical therapist about what is best for you.

Achilles Tendonitis

Overview

This overuse injury affects the tendon at the back of the leg. It’s often triggered by excessive training, poor footwear, or tight calf muscles.

​Symptoms	​Treatment
Dull ache near the heel Pain that worsens with activity Mild swelling in the lower calf	Rest and ice Anti-inflammatory medicationStretching, taping, and physical therapy Orthotics if necessary

Prevention

• Always warm up
• Gradually increase workout intensity
• Replace old athletic shoes regularly

Patellar Tendonitis

Overview

Caused by repetitive stress to the patellar tendon (just below the kneecap), jumper’s knee is common in athletes who frequently jump and land.

Symptoms​	​Treatment
Pain directly over the patellar tendon Pain with activities, especially kneeling​ Pain with jumping	NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) Ice and rest Stretching of the quads, hamstrings, and calvesSupport straps or braces

Prevention

• Strengthen your lower body
• Avoid hard landings
• Warm up before every game or practice

Muscle Strains

Strains occur when muscles are overstretched or torn. They’re common in the back, hamstrings, and neck.

This injury can be prevented by taking precautions and practicing proper form and posture. It is important to always stretch and warm-up beforehand.

Symptoms​	Treatment​
Sharp pain in the muscle Swelling and Tenderness Limited range of motion Bruising or Discoloration	R.I.C.E. protocol NSAIDs for pain relief Gradual stretching and strengthening

Prevention

• Practice proper form and posture
• Always warm up and stretch
• Avoid overtraining

ACL Tears

An ACL tear is one of the most serious knee injuries in basketball, often requiring surgery. It usually happens with sudden stops, changes in direction, or awkward landings.

Symptoms​	Treatment​
A popping sound at the moment of injury Severe swelling Instability or slippage of the knee Intense pain during movement	ACL reconstruction A structured ACL rehab program Bracing and physical therapy

​Prevention

• Strengthen hips, thighs, and core
• Practice proper landing mechanics
• Include agility and balance training in workouts

Finger Injuries

Overview

Finger injuries often occur when the ball strikes the hand awkwardly, causing jams, sprains, or fractures.

Players can prevent this injury by simply being mindful while they are on the court. Being aware of your surroundings is the best way to avoid a finger injury.

Symptoms​	​Treatment
Swelling, bruising, or deformity Difficulty moving the fingerPain over the joint	Splinting or “buddy taping” for minor injuries Surgery may be needed for tendon or bone damage

Prevention

• Stay alert during games and practice
• Use proper catching techniques

What You Can Do to Stay Injury-Free

Preventing basketball injuries takes a proactive approach:

• Always warm up and stretch before practices and games
• Use proper gear and replace worn-out shoes
• Focus on balance, strength, and mobility training
• Don’t ignore pain—get evaluated early to prevent bigger problems
  

Work with a physical therapist or sports performance specialist

Just remember, avoiding a basketball-related injury ultimately comes down to being aware of your body, warming up properly, and stretching frequently. Attending physical therapy, or athletic training, are great ways to help keep your body in great condition. You can book an appointment for a basketball injury screening here.

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Article Reviewed by Holly Lookabaugh-Deur, PT, DSc, GCS, CEEAA

Holly Lookabaugh-Deur, PT, DSc, GCS, CEEAA is a practicing physical therapist and a partner and Director of Clinical Services at Ivy Rehab Network. Deur is board certified as a geriatric clinical specialist and certified exercise expert for aging adults with more than 35 years of clinical experience.  She is certified as an aquatic and oncology rehabilitation specialist and serves as adjunct faculty at Central Michigan University and Grand Valley State University.