Basketball is the sport of choice of millions of youth in the United States. By some estimates, as many as 800 million people of all ages worldwide enjoy the playing sport.

With its popularity, however, comes increased risk of injury—in particular among those unware of how to decrease that risk through proper preparation and best practices.

In this episode of Move Forward Radio, physical therapist Amy Atmore, discusses the most common basketball injuries and why they happen. She discusses factors such as body mechanics, body awareness, athleticism, nutrition, hydration, and "dynamic" warm-ups to minimize injury risk and maximize performance. She also shares simple steps that all athletes should take to stay at the top of their game.

What about returning to play after injury? She offers some things to consider to make return-to-play go smoothly.   

Download the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Play, or listen below.

Amy Atmore, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist specializing in sports medicine in Southern California. She is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist. Atmore has practiced in brain injury, acute care, orthopedics, and sports. She has worked with athletes at the high school, college, and professional level including the National Basketball Association, National Football League, Major League Baseball, USA Volleyball, and USA Track and Field. She also has developed successful evidence-based injury reduction programs and return to sport protocols in the areas of concussion and ACL injuries. Atmore travels locally and nationally to improve performance and reduce injury risk in athletes.