Basketball is a sport that put a great amount of strain on your feet, and the unique movements necessary to play basketball can turn this strain into an injury. The shoes you wear can not only keep your feet comfortable during play, but also help prevent these injuries.
Injuries
Jumping, stopping suddenly and quick movements are all factors in basketball that lead to ankle sprains or fractures. Although ankle sprains are one of the most common basketball-related injuries, the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine states that wearing the wrong shoe can lead to foot, leg, hip and even back pain.
Function
Basketball shoes are designed specifically for a basketball player. A basketball shoe must be durable to withstand the abuse they are put through, be comfortable while provide you with the stability around the ankle that is necessary for quick movements, and have good traction. The soles have to stop quickly on the basketball court and allow you to push off quickly. Most of all, basketball shoes protect the body and foot from injury.
Professional Use
According to the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, 68 percent of professional basketball players wear a high-top basketball shoe to support their ankles. Fifteen percent use a basketball shoe that is only a three-quarter top and 10 percent use a low top. The low top and three-quarter top shoes do not provide as much stability for your ankle, but allow more speed and less ankle restrictions.
Considerations
Finding the right basketball shoe for you should be based on your specific body mechanics and what functions you really want from your shoe. Always consider injuries and focus on how you can avoid them. If a shoe boasts a high success rate with injury prevention, that might be the way you need to go.
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