Basketball is one of the most popular sports for kids and teenagers in Chicago and south suburban Chicago alike. And while it’s a great way to stay active and learn team sport fundamentals, basketball comes with a high risk of injury, especially for young athletes who are still developing physically. At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we see a wide range of basketball-related injuries in young athletes, and we’re here to help with expert advice on treatment and prevention.

Below, we’ve highlighted some of the most common youth basketball injuries and how you can help your child avoid them.

1. Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are among the most frequent basketball injuries, caused by sudden movements, quick changes in direction, or landing awkwardly after a jump. These injuries happen when the ligaments around the ankle are overstretched or torn.

Treatment:

• Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE): The first line of defense for a sprained ankle is the RICE method. Rest the injured leg, apply ice for 20-minute intervals, wrap the ankle with compression, and keep the leg elevated to reduce swelling.
• Rehabilitation: Depending on the severity, physical therapy may be necessary to restore range of motion and strength. In severe cases, a brace or crutches might be required to help with healing.

Prevention:

• Strengthen the Ankles: Regular strength exercises like calf raises and resistance band exercises can help build stronger ankles.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Shoes designed for basketball offer ankle support and traction, helping to prevent slips and falls.
• Warm-Up Thoroughly: Make sure young players stretch and warm up their muscles before hitting the court to improve flexibility and reduce the chance of injury.

If you find yourself or your child injured with an ankle sprain, visit MidAmerica’s Foot and Ankle Clinic to get back on the court as soon as possible!

2. Knee Injuries (ACL/Meniscus Tears)

Knee injuries, particularly ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears and meniscus tears, can be serious and are common in sports that involve jumping and rapid directional changes. ACL tears can result from twisting motions, while meniscus tears often occur when the knee is bent and twisted under stress.

Treatment:

• Rest and Physical Therapy: In minor cases, rest and targeted physical therapy can help with recovery. A physical therapist will guide the child through exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the knee, aiding in stability.
• Surgery: More severe injuries like ACL tears often require surgery, followed by an extensive rehabilitation process to regain full function.

Prevention:

• Strength and Conditioning Programs: Building strength in the muscles that support the knee—such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hips—can help prevent injury.
• Proper Jumping and Landing Techniques: Young athletes should be trained in how to jump and land safely to reduce pressure on their knees. Encourage landing with knees bent and avoiding inward knee collapse.
• Incorporate Balance and Agility Drills: Regular balance exercises, like standing on one leg, can enhance knee stability during high-impact movements.

3. Jammed or Dislocated Fingers

Jammed fingers are extremely common in basketball due to the fast-paced nature of the game and the risk of fingers coming into direct contact with the ball or another player. This injury occurs when the ligaments in the fingers are overstretched, leading to swelling and discomfort. In more severe cases, the finger can become dislocated which is painful and dangerous if left untreated.

Treatment:

• Rest and Ice: Icing the affected finger and resting it is crucial. In some cases, taping the injured finger to the adjacent one (buddy taping) can help provide stability while it heals.
• Splinting: For more severe jams, a splint may be used to protect the finger from further injury while it heals.

Prevention:

• Proper Ball Handling Techniques: Teaching young players to catch and handle the ball correctly can help prevent finger jams. Encourage keeping fingers spread out and relaxed when catching the ball, rather than stiff and straight.
• Hand and Finger Strengthening Exercises: Simple hand exercises, such as squeezing a stress ball, can improve finger strength and flexibility.

4. Concussions

While basketball is not a full-contact sport, concussions can still occur from collisions with other players, falls, or getting hit in the head with the ball. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury and should be taken very seriously.

Treatment:

• Immediate Rest: If a concussion is suspected, the player should immediately stop playing and rest.
• Medical Evaluation: It’s essential to get a medical evaluation to assess the severity of the concussion. In most cases, rest and reduced physical and cognitive activities are recommended to allow the brain time to heal.
• Grxadual Return to Play: Once symptoms subside, the athlete should follow a step-by-step return-to-play protocol under a doctor's guidance to ensure a safe recovery.

Prevention:

• Teach Safe Play: Encourage young players to stay aware of their surroundings on the court and avoid reckless physical contact.
• Promote Good Sportsmanship: Coaches should emphasize the importance of safe and respectful play to reduce the risk of collisions that could lead to concussions.

5. Shin Splints

Shin splints are another common injury among youth basketball players. The condition causes pain along the shinbone, usually as a result of overuse, improper footwear, or running on hard surfaces like gym floors.

Treatment:

• Rest and Ice: Resting and applying ice to the shins can reduce inflammation and pain.
• Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening the muscles around the shin, along with proper footwear, can help alleviate shin splints. A physical therapist may provide exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the calves and feet.

Prevention:

• Wear Supportive Shoes: Proper footwear that provides good arch and heel support can help prevent shin splints.
• Gradual Training: Avoid sudden increases in intensity or duration of physical activity. Make sure young athletes build up their endurance gradually.
• Warm-Up and Stretching: Incorporate warm-up routines and stretching to help loosen up the leg muscles before play.

Helping Young Athletes Stay Healthy

Basketball is an excellent sport for building teamwork, coordination, and endurance, but it’s important to recognize the potential for injury, especially in young players. If your child does experience an injury, seeking professional care as soon as possible is crucial for a full recovery.

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we offer specialized treatment for sports injuries, from ankle sprains to knee injuries, and we work closely with athletes of all ages to help them recover and return to the game safely. Prevention is key, and with the right training and precautions, many injuries can be avoided altogether.

Does your child have a basketball injury? Don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Schedule an appointment with MidAmerica Orthopaedics today and let our expert team help your young athlete recover and get back on the court stronger than ever.