Imagine jumping in the air to make a throw, and as you land, you feel something pop in your knee. This does not sound good, right? Knee injuries happen a lot during basketball games. Many basketball players have taken early retirement because of knee injuries and problems. Understanding risks like these, one might wonder why basketball players wear rubber bands on their knees.
A lot of running and jumping is involved in basketball, and it’s a high-impact sport. This much activity can take a toll on a player’s knees. This is where rubber knee bands come in, as compression helps keep the knees stable. Severe knee injuries can even lead to a premature end to someone’s career in basketball. That is why players wear appropriate gear to protect their joints.
Do Knee Braces Help in Basketball?
Yes, knee braces help in basketball. Some of the most common injuries faced by NBA players include MCL tears, ACL tears, and jumper’s knees. Knee braces help the players by providing medical-grade compression, stability, and protection from injuries. It also helps the players run, shoot, dribble, and jump efficiently throughout the game. Knee braces also equip players with confidence and allow them to play with fewer worries of injuries.
Why Do NBA Players Wear Rubber Wristbands?
One of the many reasons behind wearing rubber wristbands is for team indenting. Some wear them to endorse a message or a cause. Usually, NBA players wear wristbands to absorb sweat so that the grip on the ball won’t get compromised. You can see famous basketball players with wristbands all the time.
How Do I Protect My Knees When Playing Basketball?
You can protect your knees by wearing knee braces. However, you should also invest in your health and playing strategy to avoid injuries. Here are a couple of areas that you should focus on to protect your knees in the long run.
- Get In Shape
If you have a basketball game coming up, you should gradually start increasing the level of physical activity. It is essential that your knees feel strong before getting in the game. This also decreases the chance of inflammation and pain.
- Stay Hydrated
Drink enough fluids so that your body can cool down after sweating and evaporation. It can be water or fresh juices as well. This significantly improves the elasticity of ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
- Pay Attention to Your Playing Technique
Focus on your movements and positions. Have a playing strategy that gets you to win a game and does not put your knee at an awkward angle as well. It goes without saying, but the practice is the key here.
- Warm-up Frequently
Even if you’ve to shoot hoops in your background, do that. Your muscles need a ten-minute warm-up at the very least. Cold muscles are more prone to get more affected by hits and injuries.
- Choose Your Playing Field Carefully
It is crucial to make sure you are playing on a smooth surface with no holes and bumps.
Lastly, do remember that playing should be fun, and in case you feel any pops in your knee, wear knee braces immediately and consult a doctor.
What Do NBA Players Put On Their Knees?
You must have seen NBA players with different knee bands, ranging from complex fiber braces to neoprene sleeves. These sleeves are not merely fashion accessories; they help players protect their knees from injuries and enhance their performance. Some NBA players also opt for multiple knee braces. Although these braces can’t guarantee complete protection, they do decrease the impact of a hit considerably.
What Knee Braces Do NBA Players Use?
You must have noticed that most NBA players wear knee braces. Usually, players use three types of knee braces, which include:
- Supportive Compression Knee Sleeve
This one provides additional support and compression to the knees of NBA players. Typically, this type of knee brace is made of latex and neoprene, and Velcro is attached at the end of the brace for easy closure. It benefits NBA players by reducing swelling and pain.
- Hinged Knee Brace
NBA players use this orthopedic brace for knee support and to prevent injuries. It allows the players to move their joints freely while keeping them stable.
These are only worn by NBA players with serious injuries such as PCL or ACL. This knee brace is bulky, padded, and more heavy-duty to provide enhanced protection to the joints..
- Patellar Tendon Strap
This brace relieves tension from the large tendon that runs from the kneecap to the shin bone.
What Do NBA Players Put On Their Knees After A Game?
What NBA players apply to their knees after a game for relief varies from player to player. Some use ice packs, as pressure from the pack offers compression against blood vessels and muscles, reducing swelling and pain. It also numbs the affected area temporarily.
Other players tend to stretch after a basketball game. This relaxes their muscles, knee joints, and ligaments. Some also use a dark liquid called Synvisc, which looks like motor oil.. This liquid offers some lubrication to players’ knees. Other ointments are also viable for knee relief and lots of NBA players use them frequently.
Conclusion
- In a basketball game, the knees bear all the pressure, as this game involves a lot of running and jumping.
- NBA players wear knee braces to keep their knees in good shape and healthy. It gives them the confidence to win.
- There are different types of knee braces, such as supportive knee braces, compression knee braces, hinged knee braces, etc.
- It is crucial to increase your physical activity before entering a basketball game. This will be good for your knee in the long run.
- Knee braces offer stability, enhanced mobility, and protection to NBA players.
- A durable knee brace can keep you away from future problems.
