Can You Play Basketball with Scoliosis? Expert Tips And Advice

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition related to puberty growth, characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. It is more common in girls than boys and is usually painless, though it may cause back discomfort with activity. Scoliosis is genetic, meaning it can run in families and, if left untreated, can become severe. It is treated through bracing and surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

What Are The Rules For Playing Basketball With Scoliosis?

1. Consult With A Doctor Before Playing

Step 1: Contact a specialist

Step 2: Discuss your activity level

Make an appointment to see a specialist who focuses on Scoliosis. You may need to ask for a referral from your primary care doctor.

Talk to the specialist about the amount and type of physical activity you do—including playing basketball.

Step 3: Understand your Scoliosis

The specialist will physically examine your spine and review any previous imaging studies of your Scoliosis.

Step 4: Get treatment recommendations

The specialist may suggest various treatments based on the examination, such as physical therapy, a custom-made brace, or surgery.

2. Consult With A Doctor Before Playing

Step 1: Wear a brace or support device to help reduce pain and prevent further curvature of the spine.

Step 2: Do warm-up exercises emphasizing balance and flexibility before playing or practicing.

Step 3: Ensure you are familiar with and follow the game’s rules to reduce the risk of injury.

Step 4: Try to avoid contact with other players as much as possible.

Step 5: Take regular breaks when playing to ensure you don’t strain yourself or worsen your Scoliosis.

3. Check With Your Trainer About Restrictions On The Court.

• Playing basketball with Scoliosis requires certain restrictions that should be adhered to prevent
  further complications. These restrictions include:

• Avoid long-distance running and jogging.

• Engage in endurance training, such as walking or running on the treadmill and riding a
  stationary bicycle for half an hour at least four times a week.

• Seek physiotherapy to support a training plan.

• Stretch regularly during warm-ups.

• Avoid high-impact sports activities, such as basketball.

• Do low-impact aerobic exercises that build strength and endurance in the back muscles,
  such as swimming (preferably freestyle, backstroke, or breaststroke), cycling (not off-
  road), walking, hiking, and sprinting.

• Engage in aerobics, such as dance, color guard, yoga, and flexibility training.
  Play table sports, such as table tennis/ping pong and foosball, croquet, badminton, and
  shuffleboard.

• Participate in gliding-type activities, such as cross-country skiing and using ellipticals,
  Nordic track, Gazelle edge, and similar exercise machines that do not involve repetitive
  shocks.

• Do short-term, high-intensity exercises (burst training) instead of long-term, low-
  intensity workouts.

• Perform strengthening exercises to support the spine.

4. Understand Your Scoliosis Symptoms And Risks

Playing basketball with Scoliosis can be a challenging activity, as it involves a lot of sudden and quick movement as well as a lot of high-impact falls. As a result, those with Scoliosis should be aware of some of the risks associated with the sport.

The most common symptoms and risks associated with playing basketball with Scoliosis include:

Back Pain: Scoliosis can cause the spine to curve unnaturally, resulting in chronic back
pain. This can be exacerbated when playing basketball due to sudden, intense movements
and high-impact fall.

Joint Pain: Scoliosis can also cause joint pain and stiffness, as the spine cannot move
naturally or healthily. This pain can be exacerbated by the intense movements and falls
associated with basketball, leading to further joint pain.

Risk of Fractures: Playing basketball with Scoliosis can also increase the risk of spinal
fractures due to the sudden, high-impact falls typical of the game.

Increased Risk of Degenerative Disorders: People living with Scoliosis are also at an increased risk of degenerative disorders due to the abnormal stress placed on their spines
when playing basketball.

In conclusion, while playing basketball with Scoliosis can be challenging, pursuing your passion
for the sport with proper care and attention to your body is always an option. Stay informed, stay
active, and enjoy the game! Always prioritize your health and safety, and consult medical
professionals for personalized advice.