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When you step on the netball court, all that matters is winning, but protecting yourself and your teammates matters just as much.
Netball is a fast-paced, exhilarating sport that’s excellent for keeping fit and fostering a sense of teamwork, especially in kids. Given netball's intense nature, the movements involved can cause injuries, especially to the lower body. As part of our sports injury series, we take a closer look at the most common netball injuries and how players, coaches, and event organisers can help reduce the risks.
Common injuries seen on the netball court
According to Kevin De Klerk, a Specialised Medical Support Coordinator at ER24 Sandton, ankle sprains are by far the most common injury in netball. Sprains typically occur when a player lands awkwardly after jumping or steps onto another player’s foot.
Sprain signs:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Pain when bearing weight
- Instability in the joint
Netball also places significant strain on the knees due to jumping and pivoting. Injuries can range from mild ligament sprains to more serious damage, including tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
Signs:
- A popping sound at the time of injury
- Rapid swelling
- Severe pain
- Difficulty walking or bending the knee
Finger and hand injuries: Because netball involves catching and passing at speed, finger dislocations, sprains, and even fractures are common.
How does this usually happen?
- The ball strikes the tip of the finger unexpectedly
- Two players compete for possession
- A player attempts to break a fall with their hands
Muscle strains and tears: Sudden bursts of speed can cause strains, particularly in the calves, hamstrings, and groin.
Signs:
- Sudden sharp pains
- Muscle tightness
- Weakness or limited movement
Head injuries: Players may clash heads, collide while fighting for the ball, or fall and hit their head.
Signs:
- Feeling confused
- Headache
- Nausea
- blurred vision
Having trained event paramedics on hand ensures rapid emergency response, allowing treatment to begin even before ambulance transport. Injured players are closely monitored, and those with more serious injuries receive immediate, expert assessment and are directed to appropriate medical care without delay.