Featured in National Enquirer: How to Stay Safe on the Court During March Madness

As March Madness ignites basketball fever across the country, more fans are getting out their sneakers and hitting local courts. But with the rise in recreational play comes a concerning trend: a spike in basketball-related injuries. According to a ValuePenguin analysis of CPSC NEISS data from 2012 to 2021, basketball leads all sports in emergency room visits due to injury, which accounts for over 4.4 million injuries, or 26% of all sports-related ER visits during that period.

In a recent article with National Enquirer, Regenerative Medicine Director and Sports Medicine expert Dr. Niteesh Bharara underscores the importance of injury prevention, especially for casual or aging players eager to join in the March Madness fun. 

Why Basketball Leads in Sports Injuries

Unlike sports that have frequent breaks in gameplay, basketball is fast-paced and continuous, often requiring players to sprint, pivot, jump, and land—all of which put significant strain on the knees, ankles, hips, and spine.

Dr. Bharara is a basketball enthusiast and has treated countless basketball-related injuries, from sprains and ligament tears to overuse injuries like tendonitis and stress fractures. He explains that basketball can quickly turn into a contact sport, especially during high-intensity games. Even when physical contact is minimal, the rapid directional changes and frequent jumping place intense stress on joints and muscles.

Preparation as Key to Injury Prevention

Older players or those returning to the court after long breaks are particularly vulnerable. Dr. Bharara notes that failing to stretch adequately or condition properly before playing increases the risk of serious joint injuries.

Basketball may look like just another game of pickup fun, but Dr. Bharara emphasizes that it can involve running up to two miles per game on unforgiving surfaces like blacktop or hardwood. This kind of stress on the body, without proper preparation, can lead to both acute injuries and chronic conditions.

Expert Tips to Prevent Basketball Injuries

To enjoy basketball safely, especially during the excitement of March Madness, follow these expert-backed prevention strategies:

• Warm Up and Stretch: Prioritize dynamic stretching to loosen joints and warm muscles before gameplay.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Invest in shoes designed for basketball that provide ankle support and proper traction.
• Hydrate and Rest: Stay hydrated and allow for adequate recovery between games or practice sessions.
• Listen to Your Body: Don’t ignore pain as early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major injuries.

Play Smart, Stay Safe

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a weekend warrior, the thrill of March basketball shouldn’t come at the expense of your long-term health. Proper preparation, strategic gameplay, and injury awareness are key to enjoying the game while minimizing risks. At VSI, we understand how sports injuries, especially those involving the spine and joints, can derail your active lifestyle. If you’re experiencing back, knee, or ankle pain after a game, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with our orthopedic and spine specialists to get back on your feet and back in the game safely.