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Step 1
Ice the injured area to reduce inflammation and pain. Your doctor may also recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for the same purposes.
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Step 2
Rest your body. Some injuries may require that you stop playing basketball for a period of time to let your body recover. Injuries can often benefit from different activities or just periods of rest.
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Step 3
See a physical therapist to help you strengthen the injured area. Working with a qualified professional can help you maintain a steady improvement while she monitors your progress and consults with your doctor. For many injuries, getting a diagnosis and professional advice on rehabilitating the injury can help avoid further damage.
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Step 4
Use a brace and other supports to help give the injured area extra stability. A knee or ankle brace or wrap can give your leg and foot the support it needs. This can take pressure off the injured area as it recovers.
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Step 5
Maintain movement in the injured area. Your physical therapist or doctor may recommend that you participate in activities like swimming or biking to maintain your fitness level, but put less stress on your joints will you rehabilitate your injury. They may also give you exercises that will maintain the flexibility in the injured area.
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Step 6
Begin playing again slowly. Depending on your injury, you may need to gradually ease yourself back into game shape. Jumping back into the game too soon, before your body is ready, can result in re-injury or permanent damage to your body. Start with practicing dribbling or taking practice shots before progressing into a scrimmage.
