Sever's Disease (calcaneal apophysitis) is a common overuse injury affecting young athletes, especially those who play sports with lots of jumping and running—like basketball. This heel pain occurs when rapid growth spurts make the heel’s growth plate vulnerable to inflammation from the impact of jumping and quick sprints. This condition often arises in players between the ages of 8 and 15 and can become aggravated by frequent jumping and sprinting on hard surfaces.

For basketball players eager to stay on the court, Sports Physiotherapy can provide crucial relief and strategies to safely return to the game.

The most common symptoms of Sever’s Disease include:

• Pain or swelling in the heel, especially during or after games
• Limping or avoiding running due to discomfort
• Heel stiffness in the morning

How Hoops Physio Can Help

A targeted physiotherapy program for young basketball players can relieve pain, improve strength, and address risk factors to keep athletes on the court. Utilising our state-of-the-art basketball facility, we at Hoops Physio work closely with each athlete to develop a specific tailored treatment plan which will include elements of the following:

-         Activity Modification

-         Pain Management

-         Targeted Stretching

-         Strengthening key areas

-         Footwear advice and recommendations

-         Taping and Compression

-         Basketball specific training/drills

-         Gradual return to play

-         Injury prevention

Injury Prevention for Basketball Players

Preventing future flare ups and injuries is a key focus of sports physiotherapy. Basketball players can reduce their risk by following these tips:

• Warm-Up Properly: Incorporate dynamic stretches and movement drills to prepare the body for high-intensity play.
• Regular Strength Training: Strengthening the muscles around the foot and ankle supports the joints and lowers the risk of injury.
• Learn Proper Techniques: Using correct landing mechanics and pivoting skills helps minimize stress on the foot and ankle during games.
• Manage Excessive Loads: Recognising periods of high and low loading and modifying as needed to reduce the risk of injury.

Conclusion

Sever’s Disease can be challenging for basketball players, but with the right physiotherapy approach, young basketball players can stay active and return to the court with confidence. Focusing on pain management, strengthening, balance training, and basketball-specific drills, our experienced team at Hoops Physio ensures athletes can return to the court safely and reduce the likelihood of future injuries and flare ups. Contact Hoops Physio today to schedule an appointment with our team to help you get to full recovery and back on the court!

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