Injuries in sports can be devastating, especially when they involve a beloved athlete. From torn ACLs to broken bones, injuries can have a lasting impact on an athlete’s career and even their entire life.
In the NBA, some of the most iconic players have suffered from serious injuries that changed the course of their careers.
Here are some of the most infamous NBA injuries of all time and how they affected these legendary athletes.
Paul George’s Broken Leg
In 2014, Indiana Pacers star Paul George suffered a horrific leg injury while playing in a Team USA scrimmage.
While attempting to block a layup, he landed awkwardly and fractured his right tibia and fibula.
The severity of the injury was so great that it had everyone watching in shock. George underwent surgery and was forced to miss the entire 2014-15 season, but he returned the following season and was even named an All-Star.
Derrick Rose Tears ACL
One of the most devastating injuries in sports is an ACL tear, and it has ended many NBA careers. In 2012, Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose suffered a torn ACL during the playoffs.
This injury was especially heartbreaking as Rose was at the peak of his career and had just won the MVP award that season.
After undergoing surgery, he missed the entire 2012-13 season and wasn’t able to return until the following year.
Shaun Livingston’s Disastrous Fall
Another infamous NBA injury that had a lasting impact was the horrific fall suffered by the then-rookie Shaun Livingston in 2007.
While playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, Livingston drove to the basket and attempted to lay up when his knee tragically buckled and he collapsed to the ground.
His knee was dislocated and he suffered a severe tear of his ACL, PCL, and meniscus.
He underwent multiple surgeries and missed the entire 2007-2008 season. Despite being told he wouldn’t play again, Livingston was determined to make a comeback and eventually returned to the NBA in 2009.
Kobe Bryant Tears Achilles Tendon
Kobe Bryant’s tear of his Achilles tendon in 2013 is one of the most infamous NBA injuries of all time.
The injury occurred during a game against the Golden State Warriors when Kobe mistimed a jump and felt excruciating pain in his lower left leg as he fell to the ground.
After further examination, it was revealed that Kobe had torn his Achilles tendon, and he was forced to miss the remainder of that season and much of the following season as well.
Although Kobe eventually returned to the court, his career suffered a dramatic decline after this devastating injury.
Yao Ming Feet Troubles
Yao Ming’s foot troubles are perhaps one of the most unfortunate and significant injuries in NBA history.
In 2008, the Houston Rockets center suffered a stress fracture in his left foot that caused him to miss the entire season.
After undergoing surgery, he returned for the 2009-10 season but was limited to only 5 games due to recurring ankle and foot problems.
He missed the entire 2011-12 season due to a lingering fracture in his left ankle, and he eventually retired from the NBA in 2011 after being unable to fully recover.
Rehabilitation And Recovery
When it comes to rehabilitation for NBA players with serious injuries, there is a wide range of therapies and treatments that can be employed in order to help them get back on the court.
Perhaps one of the most important aspects of rehabilitation is rest and recovery, as this gives the injured player’s body time to heal without any additional stress or strain being placed on it. In addition to recovery, there are tons of other options, of which we will mention a few.
Physical Therapy
It can be utilized to help strengthen the injured area and improve the range of motion.
Other forms of treatment such as acupuncture, massage, and cryotherapy may also be recommended depending on the specific injury.
Gels
Gels are often used as part of a rehabilitation protocol for NBA players with serious injuries. These gels are typically formulated to reduce inflammation and help promote recovery.
They may be applied directly to the injured area or taken orally in pill form.
CBD gels have become increasingly popular in recent years as a major form of treatment for NBA players with serious injuries.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally-occurring compound found in the cannabis plant that has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. T
Thus, it can be beneficial for NBA players who are dealing with serious injuries and need to manage the associated pain.
Psychological Support
This is an important part of the rehabilitation process for NBA players with serious injuries.
A professional counselor or psychologist can provide emotional and mental support that may be necessary in order to help the player cope with both the physical and psychological aspects of their injury.
Final Word
In conclusion, NBA players with serious injuries require comprehensive rehabilitation protocols in order to get back on the court.
Rest and recovery are essential for allowing their bodies time to heal, while physical therapy can help strengthen the injured area and improve the range of motion.
Certain gels may be recommended as part of a treatment plan – such as CBD gels that have anti-inflammatory properties – and psychological support is necessary in order to manage both the physical and emotional aspects of an injury.
With dedication from medical professionals, proper rest and recovery, and access to all forms of supportive treatments available today, any basketball player can return from even the most devastating injuries.
