Print
E-Mail
tool name
closein the redzone: Getting back on the court is a blessing in more ways than one
Shaun Scott
Sometimes people take the simple joys in life for granted. I’m in no way, shape or form immune to this phenomena.
Since the summer of 2007, my right knee has been in constant pain, but it didn’t stop me from participating in some of my favorite athletic activities at the time which consisted primarily of basketball and flag football.
That all changed on March 17, 2008 at my apartment complex in Puyallup. During a 5-on-5 full-court pickup basketball game, I was dribbling the ball as fast as I could on a fast break up the court when an unforgettable injury struck. A defender attempted to cut off my path so I cut to the left as hard as I could off of my right knee. (This is the same right knee that had been bothering me for the past nine months.) When I did that instant pain shivered throughout my entire knee.
I knew right then that I wouldn’t be playing basketball for quite a while.
Even though I still played flag football with a hefty knee brace on, basketball was out of the question completely. Finally in late May, I went to the doctor for my yearly physical and he diagnosed me with tendinitis in my right knee. He told me the only way my knee would feel better was if I lost weight and if I rested the knee. During the first two months of summer I heeded the advice of my doctor partaking in a better diet and immersing myself in exercises that were agreeable with my knee.
Finally, on July 14 I stepped onto the basketball court, playing a complete 3-on-3 game. I was skeptical before the game began and was very concerned I wouldn’t be able to hold up physically. Much to my surprise and delight I was able to complete the game without any significant set backs.
For the past five weeks, I’ve played basketball on an average of two times a week which has significantly improved my physical fitness. For me being able to play basketball again is about much more than physical fitness, it’s for my cognitive well being as well. If you’ve ever played sports in your life you know the feeling I’m talking about. There’s nothing like finishing a game with your heart pounding and perspiration dripping from every pore of your body. It just feels good. The endorphins released from workouts is a natural high in itself. Not only do I feel better since I started hooping it up again, my physical health has improved immensely.
Since July 1, I’ve lost 10 pounds due to my basketball workouts and new diet. If I can keep up this regimen and not re-injure my knee, my physical health will undoubtedly continue to improve.
I’m keeping my fingers crossed.