Sports Games Injuries: Football, Basketball, Tennis, and Paddle Ball | Non-Surgical Care in Singapore
Understanding Sports Games Injuries
Injuries related to sports such as football, basketball, tennis, and paddle are common among both professional athletes and recreational enthusiasts. These injuries often occur suddenly during games or build up gradually through repetitive movements. Whether you play competitively or enjoy weekend matches, it’s important to recognise early signs of injury and seek appropriate care.

At our Singapore-based clinic, Dr. Dinesh Sirisena, a specialist in non-surgical orthopaedic and sports medicine, provides comprehensive assessment and evidence-based treatment for a range of sports injuries. Our focus is on restoring mobility, reducing pain, and helping you return to your favourite activities safely.
Why Do People Experience Sports Games Injuries?
Several factors contribute to sports games injuries in football, basketball, tennis, and paddle ball. These high-impact and fast-paced sports demand frequent jumping, sprinting, sudden stops, and directional changes. Additionally, repeated strain on specific muscle groups and joints often results in overuse injuries.
Examples of common sports games injury areas include:
- Ankles: sprains, ligament tears, and tendon overload from sudden twists or landings.
- Knees: ligament strains (such as ACL injuries), meniscus tears, and patellar tendinopathy.
- Shoulders: rotator cuff strains and impingements from overhead shots, throwing or landing on the shoulder.
- Elbows: tennis elbow or paddle elbow from repetitive swinging motions.
- Lower back: muscular strains and spasms due to quick turns or overextension.
Recognising these common areas helps with early intervention and injury prevention.
What Causes These Sports Games Injuries, and What Are the Symptoms?
Understanding the causes of sports games injuries allows players to take proactive steps in reducing risks. In football, basketball, tennis, and paddle ball, injuries typically result from either acute trauma or repetitive overuse.
Causes of Sports Games Injuries:
- Sudden movements and high-impact actions: Quick directional changes and jumps place stress on joints and ligaments.
- Overuse and repetitive strain: Repeated practice of strokes, sprints, or shots can overload tendons and muscles.
- Poor technique or improper form: Incorrect biomechanics often increase injury risks.
- Inadequate warm-up and flexibility: Skipping warm-ups or lacking mobility affects muscle readiness.
- Fatigue and overtraining: Tired muscles and joints are more vulnerable to strains and sprains.
Common Symptoms:
The symptoms of sports games injuries vary based on the severity and area affected, but typical signs include:
- Sharp or dull pain during or after activity
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around joints and muscles
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- Muscle weakness or instability in affected areas
- Discomfort during repetitive movements like running, jumping, or swinging
Early recognition is crucial because delaying treatment might worsen the injury.
How Do You Relieve Sports Games Injuries?
Most sports games injuries related to football, basketball, tennis, and paddle respond well to non-surgical treatments, especially when addressed early. At Dr. Dinesh’s clinic, we focus on conservative management to ensure a safe and steady recovery.
Recommended Treatment Options:
- Initial Rest and Activity Modification
To begin with, reducing physical load on the injured area prevents further damage. - Targeted Rehabilitation Exercises
Specific stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to the sport and injury site improve flexibility and joint stability. - Physiotherapy and Manual Therapy
Guided sessions promote tissue healing, reduce muscle tightness, and enhance mobility. - Supportive Bracing or Taping
Braces and kinesiology tapes provide joint support during activity and reduce strain. - Cold and Heat Therapy
Alternating between ice and heat reduces inflammation and relieves muscle soreness. - Ultrasound-Guided Injections
In certain cases, ultrasound-guided treatments may be recommended, to heal injuries and promote recovery. - Return-to-Play Programmes
A gradual, structured plan ensures you return to sports safely without risking re-injury.
Why Choose Dr. Dinesh?
Dr. Dinesh’s reputation in sports and musculoskeletal medicine is built on years of experience treating active individuals in Singapore and internationally. His focus on non-surgical, evidence-supported treatments ensures that patients receive safe, effective care tailored to their condition and goals.
Many athletes and casual players appreciate his approachable, professional manner and clear, personalised treatment plans. Furthermore, his expertise in ultrasound-guided procedures provides accurate, minimally invasive options when needed.
Expert Advice for Safe Play
Prevention is always better than cure. Regular strength and flexibility training, proper warm-ups, and using the right techniques can significantly reduce the risk of sports injuries. Additionally, early consultation for persistent discomfort ensures timely care and better long-term outcomes.
If you experience ongoing pain or movement restrictions, don’t ignore the signs. Book a consultation with Dr. Dinesh and explore your non-surgical options for sports injury care in Singapore.