Netball is a fast-paced, high-intensity sport that demands quick footwork, sharp changes in direction, and dynamic jumps. While it’s a fantastic way to stay fit and social, the physical demands of the game can lead to injuries. Research has shown that netball injuries are common due to the sport’s dynamic movements and high-impact nature (Downs et al., 2021). Here are the top five most common netball injuries in 2024 and how physiotherapy can help you recover and prevent future issues.
1. Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are the most common injury in netball due to frequent jumping, pivoting, and sudden stops. A misstep or landing awkwardly can cause the ankle ligaments to overstretch or tear, leading to swelling, pain, and reduced mobility (Mullally et al., 2023).
How Physiotherapy Helps:
- Immediate management with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
- Strengthening and balance exercises to prevent recurrence
- Taping or bracing techniques for additional support during play
2. Knee Injuries (ACL Tears & Patellar Tendinopathy)
The knee takes a lot of strain in netball, making it susceptible to injuries like ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears and patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee). These injuries often occur from sudden changes in direction or excessive jumping and landing forcefully (Chandler et al., 2014).
How Physiotherapy Helps:
- Strengthening exercises to support knee stability
- Plyometric training to improve jumping and landing mechanics
- Rehabilitation programs to restore knee function post-injury
3. Finger & Hand Injuries
Netballers frequently suffer from jammed fingers, dislocations, or fractures from catching or deflecting the ball at high speeds. These injuries can be painful and impact everyday tasks (Smith et al., 2005).
How Physiotherapy Helps:
- Splinting or taping to support healing
- Gentle mobility exercises to regain movement
- Strength training to prevent stiffness and weakness
4. Lower Back Strains
Repetitive twisting, bending, and jumping in netball can put stress on the lower back, leading to muscle strains and discomfort (Hume & Steele, 2000).
How Physiotherapy Helps:
- Core strengthening to improve spinal stability
- Postural correction exercises to reduce strain
- Manual therapy and stretching to relieve muscle tightness
5. Achilles Tendon Injuries
The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel, is under constant strain in netball. Overuse or sudden movements can cause inflammation or even a rupture (Chandler et al., 2014).
How Physiotherapy Helps:
- Gradual strengthening exercises to build tendon resilience
- Eccentric loading exercises to aid recovery
- Advice on proper footwear and warm-up techniques
Final Thoughts
Netball injuries can be frustrating, but with the right care and prevention strategies, you can stay in the game longer. Physiotherapy plays a key role in recovery, pain management, and injury prevention. If you’ve suffered an injury or want to reduce your risk, seeing a physiotherapist can help you move better, play smarter, and stay active. Click here to book now with one of our therapists!
Stay safe on the court, and happy playing!
References
- Chandler, P. T., Pinder, S. J., Curran, J. D., & Gabbett, T. J. (2014). Physical demands of training and competition in collegiate netball players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 28(10), 2732-2737.
- Downs, C., Snodgrass, S. J., Weerasekara, I., Valkenborghs, S. R., & Callister, R. (2021). Injuries in netball—a systematic review. Sports Medicine – Open, 7(1), 1-22.
- Hume, P. A., & Steele, J. R. (2000). A preliminary investigation of injury prevention strategies in netball: Are players heeding the advice? Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 3(4), 406-413.
- Mullally, E. M., Atack, A. C., Glaister, M., Clark, N. C., & Brown, N. (2023). A cross-sectional retrospective survey of injury situation and prevalence in female recreational netball players with a focus on knee injuries. Physical Therapy in Sport, 60, 70-74.
- Smith, R., Damodaran, A. K., Swaminathan, S., Campbell, R., & Barnsley, L. (2005). Hypermobility and sports injuries in junior netball players. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 39(9), 628-631.
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