Common Basketball Injuries During March Madness | 360 Orthopedics

Common Basketball Injuries During March Madness (And When to See a Specialist)

March Madness brings high-energy competition, fast-paced gameplay, and increased interest in basketball across the country. For many, it also means getting more active—whether that’s joining a pickup game, training harder, or staying involved in recreational sports.

But with increased activity comes a higher risk of sports-related injuries, especially knee and ankle injuries common in basketball. The sport places significant stress on the joints due to rapid direction changes, jumping, and sudden stops.

At 360 Orthopedics, we frequently see a rise in sports injuries this time of year, particularly among active adults in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice.

Common Basketball Injuries

Basketball is a high-impact sport that can lead to both acute injuries and overuse conditions. Some of the most common injuries we treat include:

• ACL tears: Often caused by sudden pivoting or landing awkwardly, ACL injuries can lead to knee instability and may require surgical intervention depending on severity.
• Meniscus tears: Twisting movements can damage the cartilage in the knee, resulting in pain, swelling, and restricted motion.
• Ankle sprains: One of the most common basketball injuries, typically occurring when the foot rolls inward during quick directional changes.
• Patellar tendonitis (jumper’s knee): Repetitive jumping and strain can lead to inflammation of the tendon below the kneecap.

Why These Injuries Occur

The nature of basketball requires explosive movements such as jumping, cutting, and rapid acceleration. These motions place significant stress on ligaments, tendons, and joints—particularly in the lower body.

Injuries can happen suddenly, such as during a fall or awkward landing, or develop gradually over time due to overuse and repetitive strain.

When to See a Sports Medicine Specialist for a Basketball Injury

While some minor injuries may improve with rest, certain symptoms should not be ignored. You may benefit from evaluation by a sports medicine specialist if you experience:

• Persistent knee or ankle pain lasting more than a few days
• Swelling, stiffness, or reduced range of motion
• A sensation of instability or the joint “giving out”
• Difficulty returning to normal activity or exercise

Early diagnosis can help prevent further damage and guide the most effective treatment plan.

How 360 Orthopedics Can Help

At 360 Orthopedics, we provide comprehensive sports medicine care for a wide range of injuries—from initial evaluation through recovery and return to activity.

Steven M. Page, MD and Julie Gladden Barré, MD are board-certified orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists who treat a wide range of conditions, including knee injuries, shoulder conditions, and sports-related trauma. Their expertise includes minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopy, as well as non-surgical treatment options tailored to each patient.

Many sports-related injuries can also benefit from guided rehabilitation through physical and occupational therapy, helping patients safely regain strength, mobility, and function.

Frequently Asked Questions About Basketball Injuries

What is the most common basketball injury?

Ankle sprains are the most common injury in basketball due to frequent jumping, landing, and quick changes in direction.

How do I know if I tore my ACL?

Symptoms of an ACL tear may include a popping sensation, immediate swelling, instability, and difficulty bearing weight on the knee. A medical evaluation is recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

Can knee pain from basketball go away on its own?

Mild pain may improve with rest, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated to rule out more serious conditions such as meniscus tears or ligament injuries.

What is jumper’s knee?

Jumper’s knee, or patellar tendonitis, is an overuse injury caused by repetitive stress on the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone.

When should I see an orthopedic specialist for a sports injury?

If pain, swelling, or instability persists beyond a few days or interferes with normal activity, it’s important to seek evaluation from a specialist.

Do all sports injuries require surgery?

No. Many sports injuries can be treated with non-surgical approaches such as physical therapy, activity modification, and guided rehabilitation.

If you're experiencing persistent knee pain, an ankle injury, or another sports-related condition, our team can provide a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Call 941-951-2663 to schedule an appointment.

We proudly serve patients in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice.