Common Volleyball Injuries

Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

The rotator cuff muscles control rotation of the shoulder. They consist of the
infraspinatus, teres minor and supraspinatus muscles.These muscles are put under a great
deal of strain especially in sports where your arm is above your head a lot. A sudden
sharp pain in the shoulder would indicate a possible rupture of a tendon, while a gradual
onset is more likely to be inflammation .... more info
Suprascapular Neuropathy

This is a condition found in Volleyball players and other 'overhead sports' where the
nerve that runs along the top of the shoulder blade becomes compressed. It is thought to
be caused by the "floater serve" where the player must stop the overhead follow through
immediately after striking the ball.
Hand Injuries

Hand injuries are common when attempting to block a a spiked ball. Sprains and strains
are most common, followed by fractures and contusions and dislocations with the thumb
and little finger being most at risk. The metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb is the
most commonly injured ligament in the hand (known as a thumb sprain ) along with
finger sprains .
Patella Tendinitis (Jumpers Knee)

A common overuse injury resulting in pain on just below the bottom of the kneecap or
patella. The patella tendon (or ligament as it is sometimes called) connects the kneecap to
tibia bone. Under extreme stresses such as those involved in jumping a partial rupture can
occur. This can often lead to inflammation and degeneration of the tissue. Symptoms
include pain when pressing in at the bottom of the patella, aching and stiffness after
training and pain when you contract the quadriceps muscles or jumping..... more info
Ankle Sprain

The most common type of ankle injury is a sprain. A sprain is stretching and tearing of
ligaments. (You sprain a ligament and strain a muscle). The most common damage done
in ankle sprain is to the talo-fibula ligament. If the injury is worse you might also damage
the calcanao-fibula ligament. In addition to the ligament damage you could well have
damaged tendons as well..... more info
Back Injuries

Back injuries account for up to 14% of all Volleyball Injuries. The back is placed under a

huge amount of strain when jumping, bending backwards and twisting. Back injuries can
be complex in nature and require the attention of expert and experienced therapists.