Pickleball Injuries: Don’t Let Them Sideline You
Pickleball’s popularity has skyrocketed. Approximately 48.3 million adult Americans have played pickleball at least once, nearly 19% of the adult population. This marks a 35% increase from the previous year when the number was around 36.5 million.
Unfortunately, the number of pickleball-related injuries is also on the rise. Anyone from weekend warriors to seasoned players can suffer from the aches and pains accompanying this fast-paced sport.
At Orlando Orthopaedic Center, our experienced orthopaedic specialists like Callie Jewett, M.D., board eligible in orthopaedic surgery and specializing in sports medicine, can help you recover from pickleball injuries so you can get back on the court.
Common Pickleball Injuries
While it’s not one of the most injury-prone sports, pickleball players can sustain injuries to different areas of the body. Lower extremity injuries accounted for 29% of all pickleball injuries. Upper extremity injuries were more common, accounting for 33% of all injuries. The most commonly injured areas included:
- Wrist (13.2%)
- Lower leg (12.9%)
- Shoulder (5.4%)
- Ankle (6.1%)
- Knee (5.9%)
Some of the most frequent injuries we see in pickleball players include:
Sprains and Strains
Due to the quick movements and changes in direction involved in pickleball, ankle sprains, wrist sprains, and muscle strains are particularly common.
Tendinitis
Overuse injuries can develop from repetitive arm and wrist motions, such as tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis).
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Overhead motions in pickleball can stress the rotator cuff, leading to tears or inflammation.
Knee Injuries
Meniscus tears and ligament injuries can occur from sudden twisting or pivoting movements.
Treatment and Prevention of Pickleball Injuries
Treatment for a pickleball injury will depend on the specific type and severity. However, many injuries can be effectively managed with conservative measures, such as:
- Rest: Allowing the injured area to rest helps with healing.
- Ice: Applying ice packs can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Compression: Compression bandages can provide support and help limit swelling
- Elevation: Elevating the injured area can help reduce swelling
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program to help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
In some cases, more advanced treatments, such as injections or surgery, may be necessary. Dr. Jewett and her colleagues at Orlando Orthopaedic Center will carefully evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Pickleball Injury Prevention Tips
Taking proactive steps to reduce your risk of injury can make pickleball more enjoyable and fun for years. Some key preventive measures include:
Proper Technique: Use the correct form for hitting shots to minimize stress on your joints and muscles.- Gradual Progression: Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your play. Incorporate warm-up sessions to prepare your body for activity.
- Rest and Recovery: Allow for adequate rest periods between games and practice sessions to allow your body to recover.
- Stretching: Stretch before, during, and after play to maintain flexibility and avoid muscle tightness.
- Protective Gear: Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, ankle braces, and shoes designed for multidirectional changes.
- Court Safety: Ensure the court surface is free of hazards and avoid playing on wet or slippery surfaces.
- General Fitness: Regular exercise includes stretching, strength training, and aerobic activity.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support your body’s needs.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort, take breaks when needed, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Key Takeaways:
- Take preventative measures and wear appropriate gear to protect yourself from injuries.
- If you experience pain or discomfort while playing pickleball, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.
- With proper treatment and rehabilitation, most pickleball injuries can be successfully managed, allowing you to return to the court and continue enjoying the game.
At Orlando Orthopaedic Center, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal physical activity and well-being. If you’re dealing with a pickleball injury or any other orthopaedic concern, don’t hesitate to visit one of our walk-in clinics or chat with an orthopaedic expert now for free.
