Injury prevention for young athletes
Volleyball
All that jumping and landing puts ankles and knees first in volleyball, while serving and spiking work the shoulder hard.
Injuries to know
Ankle sprains
The most common volleyball injury, and the one that costs the most playing time.
Learn: Ankle Sprain →Jumper's knee
Repeated, forceful jumping irritates the tendon just below the kneecap.
Learn: Knee →ACL injuries
Usually from landing awkwardly after a jump.
Learn: ACL Tear →Shoulder overuse
Serving and spiking over and over can irritate the rotator cuff.
Learn: Shoulder →Finger injuries
From blocking, setting, and digging.
Learn: Wrist and Hand →
Habits that protect you
- After an ankle sprain, ask about a brace or tape before you go back.
- Keep jump training on hard surfaces to a minimum.
- Strengthen your shoulders, back, and legs with good form.
- Warm up with light jogging and stretching, and cool down after practice.
Your lesson path
Take these in order. Each lesson takes about 3 minutes.