Each year, more than 460,000 high school students — including more than 410,000 girls — participate in interscholastic volleyball.
While volleyball injuries rank lowest for all major sports, volleyball players are at risk for both traumatic and overuse injuries.
What types of injuries are most common in volleyball?
Because volleyball involves repetitive overhead motions, such as spiking and blocking, players are prone to overuse injuries of the shoulder. In addition, volleyball players are particularly susceptible to finger injuries.
How can injury be prevented?
Many volleyball injuries can be prevented by following proper training guidelines and these tips:
- Use proper strength training techniques for the lower back, shoulders, and legs
- Use an external ankle support, such as an ankle brace or taping, to prevent the ankle from rolling over, especially if you have had a prior sprain
- Minimize the amount of jump training on hard surfaces
- Warm up muscles with stretching and light aerobic exercises
- Be sure to properly cool down after practice
- If you are having pain, visit your doctor and follow instructions for treatment
- The athlete should return to play only when clearance is granted by a health care professional
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