Shoulder Injuries in Basketball

Basketball is one of the most popular sports worldwide. It is one of the most-played team sports for both genders and for all age groups. With its evolving nature from a finesse sport, to a highly physical one, basketball players have become more susceptible to acute illness or injuries. Shoulder injuries are not as common as finger or hand injuries in basketball though sometimes they may be more challenging in terms of evaluation and treatment. A proper history and physical examination with a systematic approach will help the medical staff perform a rational treatment plan. There are special tests for shoulder evaluation that can be easily performed on the field to help to make the appropriate diagnosis. Conservative management is the mainstay of treatment in most of the shoulder injuries in basketball. However, if the conservative treatment fails, surgical intervention may be considered in overhead throwing athletes.