SPOKANE, Wash. – As Hoopfest weekend approaches, athletes and medical professionals in Spokane are preparing for the excitement on the court and the potential for injuries ranging from minor sprains to broken bones.
The providers from the MultiCare medical tents are ready to respond, seeing the event as their game day too.
Achilles ruptures are one of the most common injuries reported during Hoopfest, with 20 to 30 cases a day being typical. MultiCare providers, trainers, and medical assistants are prepared to help with everything from quick band-aid or ice pack applications to more serious injuries like Achilles ruptures or broken bones.
Nick Halverson shared his story of injury and recovery. Last year, during his second game on the first day of Hoopfest, he experienced an injury.
“I felt it. I wasn’t sure what exactly happened at the time, but I knew something was wrong, so I pulled myself out of the game,” said Halverson. He went to the MultiCare tent where they performed an x-ray and informed him of a broken bone.
Dr. Benjamin Welling explained that fractures like Halverson’s can often go unnoticed.
“Sometimes people describe that just as a nagging wrist pain,” he said.
Once a diagnosis is made on the field, there is a direct line to schedule prompt clinical follow-up. In urgent cases, surgeries are often booked within a few days.
Halverson had his procedure completed in one day and wore a cast for several months. He is preparing to play in this year’s Hoopfest and plans to take precautions, such as utilizing the free taping service offered at the MultiCare tents.
“It’s good to ask for help. You’re not going to know what’s going on all the time inside your body,” he emphasized.
Dr. Welling added that identifying and treating injuries early can prevent complications. The care provided at the tents is free, and athletes are encouraged to seek help if something doesn’t feel right.
