Pickleball Injuries and Prevention
Pickleball has been growing in popularity in recent years. This racquet sport, which combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis, can be played indoors or outdoors on a court that is similar in size to a doubles badminton court. The appeal of pickleball lies in its accessibility and versatility.
One of the main appeals of pickleball is its accessibility. Pickleball can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. The rules and equipment required to play the game are relatively simple, making it easy for new players to pick up the sport quickly. Additionally, pickleball is a relatively low-impact sport, which means that it is easy on the joints and can be enjoyed by people who may not be able to play higher-impact sports such as tennis or basketball.
Another appeal of pickleball is its versatility. The sport can be played as a fun recreational activity or as a highly competitive sport. Pickleball can be played with just two players, or in doubles with a partner, providing an opportunity for both individual and team play.
PICKLEBALL INJURY RISK
Despite its popularity and benefits, pickleball does carry some injury risks.
“We typically see acute knee pain secondary to knee arthritis, tennis elbow, and acute shoulder pain secondary to rotator cuff tendinitis,” said Dr. Gregory Rubin, DO at NCH Healthcare System’s Orthopedics and Sports Medicine group.
Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons. Tendinitis can occur in the shoulders, elbows, and wrists, and is often caused by repetitive motions such as serving or volleying. Overuse injuries can also be caused by playing for long periods of time without sufficient rest, or by playing on hard surfaces.
Another potential injury risk associated with pickleball is strains or sprains. These types of injuries occur when the muscles or ligaments are stretched or torn. Strains and sprains can occur in the legs, ankles, and feet, and are often caused by improper footwork or by playing on surfaces that are uneven or slippery.
Pickleball Injury Prevention
To reduce the risk of injury while playing pickleball, it is important to warm up and stretch before playing. This helps to prepare the muscles and joints for the physical demands of the sport and can help to prevent strains and sprains. Additionally, it is important to take regular breaks and to stop playing if you feel any pain or discomfort.
Another important step to reduce the risk of injury while playing pickleball is to use proper technique and form. This includes using the right grip on your racquet, maintaining good posture, and using proper footwork. Also, wearing the right shoes and equipment. Using proper technique can help to reduce the risk of overuse injuries and can also help to improve your performance on the court.
Lastly, the surface where you play is important, particularly if you are playing on outdoor courts. Playing on a properly maintained court with the appropriate surface (such as a concrete surface, an asphalt surface, or a synthetic surface) can help to reduce the risk of injuries.
How Matterhorn Fit Can Help
We treat and train Olympians, professional athletes, and active individuals across many sports. Our process and protocols are not sport specific. Our philosophy is to train efficient motor patterns. When your brain can directly communicate with the muscles to move your body correctly, you are then prepared to engage and participate in any activity.
Start your health and wellness journey at Matterhorn Fit today by scheduling your 1-hour initial evaluation.
