Sports Then and Now

In the United States, basketball comes only second in popularity after football. Over 26 million Americans are known to participate in the sport, with a majority of being are college and high-school teams. However, as of 2017, basketball witnessed about 500,000 injuries, which is the highest, leaving behind football and cycling at 341,000 and 457,000, respectively, according to data released by the National Safety Council (NSC).

No wonder the global cartilage degeneration market is expected to reach $14,580.10 million by 2027, according to figures released by Report Linker. This number is mainly attributed to the growing incidents of sports-related injuries. Basketball knee braces can minimize the risk of meniscus tears and offer support through metal sidebars and silicone patella rings, according to experts at Aidfull. Besides investing in supports for basketball injuries, here are some tips recommended by professional players to avoid basketball injuries.

Facial Injuries

No matter how entertaining a match is, taking an accidental elbow on the face is never fun. It can lead to bleeding lips, a dislocated nose and concussion. Getting hit by a ball flying during the game can heighten the risk of facial bone damage. To keep yourself safe, invest in sturdy face guards, which can protect you against orbital, maxillary, and nasal injuries. Consider athletic glasses and teeth protective gear, if possible.

Ankle Injuries

Lateral ankle sprains are extremely common in basketball. All the jumping, landing and running can lead to strain and sprains, and the ankle might swell up mid-game. To avoid such a situation, wear basketball ankle braces. They come with bilateral semi-shield plastic shells to offer optimal protection from sports injuries. These sleeves can also prevent high ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments between the calf bone and shin bone.

Knee Injuries
If you suffer from pivoting or tearing of the medial collateral ligament, you could end up with a serious knee injury. While these do not require surgical intervention, both the conditions can be extremely painful. When left unattended, they could even end your basketball career. So, to protect your knees from sprains, consider wearing the best basketball knee pads or braces throughout the duration of the game as well as during practice sessions.

Shoulder Injuries

Rotator cuff tendonitis is common too, which can lead to irritation of the tendons and inflammation of the bursa lining, according to an article on MedlinePlus. The treatment for grade 1 and 2 injuries can be initiated with a basketball shoulder support brace. They are easy to wear, remove and can accommodate all movements comfortably.

Wrist Injuries
You might experience jammed, dislocated, or fractured fingers from the high-speed ball. The wrist can also get twisted from rigorous passing and catching. While looking for braces for basketball players, do consider buying adjustable wrist protectors as well. They offer the right support, besides reducing stiffness and sprains.

Supports for basketball injuries are imperative for both beginners and pro-level players. They help keep bones in the correct alignment, while ensuring the freedom of movements on the court.