Shoot for Safety this Basketball Season
Injuries including sprained ankles and knee ligament tears are common on the basketball court, but players are also at risk for jammed fingers and stress fractures in the foot and lower leg. The experts at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron offer the following tips to keep you injury-free this basketball season.
- Maintain fitness: Make sure you’re in good physical condition prior to the start of the basketball season. Stick to a balanced fitness program during the off-season that incorporates aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility.
- Warm up and stretch: Always take time to warm up and stretch. Studies show cold muscles are more prone to injury. Warm up with jumping jacks, stationary cycling, or running or walking in place for three to five minutes, then gently stretch, holding each stretch for 30 seconds.
- Hydrate: Even mild levels of dehydration can hurt athletic performance. Your body cannot cool itself through sweat and evaporation if you have not had enough fluids.
- Focus on technique: “Through a constant awareness of other players’ locations on the court, you can reduce the chance of injury through collisions,” explains Dr. Rajesh B. Makim, sports medicine doctor at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron. “Using proper techniques for passing and scoring is also helpful in preventing injury.”
- Use Appropriate Equipment: Select tight-fitting basketball shoes that offer support and will not skid. Use ankle supports to reduce the potential for ankle sprains. Ensure the court surface is clean and free of debris.
If you have questions about what you can do to prevent an injury on the court this season or would like to schedule an appointment with a doctor at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron, call (810) 985-4900.
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