Pickleball is a popular sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball on a court similar to a tennis court, but with a smaller size.
While pickleball is known for being a low-impact sport suitable for people of all ages and abilities, it is not without its risks. Like any physical activity, pickleball carries the potential for injuries. In this blog, we will discuss some of the Common Injuries from Pickleball players may experience.
Shoulder Injuries
Pickleball involves overhead shots, similar to those in tennis, which can put strain on the shoulder joint. Shoulder impingement, rotator cuff injuries, and labral tears are some of the common shoulder injuries that can occur in pickleball players.
To prevent shoulder injuries, players should focus on strengthening the shoulder muscles, using proper technique, and avoiding repetitive overhead motions without rest. If a shoulder injury occurs, rest, ice, and physical therapy exercises can be beneficial for recovery.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common injury in many racquet sports, including pickleball. It is characterized by pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow, usually caused by repetitive motion and strain on the forearm muscles.
In pickleball, the repetitive swinging motion required to hit the ball can put stress on the tendons in the elbow, leading to tennis elbow. To prevent this injury, players should warm up properly, use proper technique, and avoid gripping the paddle too tightly. If tennis elbow does occur, rest, ice, and physical therapy exercises can help in the recovery process.
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are another Common Injuries from Pickleball. The quick start-and-stop movements, as well as the lateral movements required in the game, can put stress on the ankle ligaments, leading to sprains. Wearing proper footwear with good ankle support and using ankle braces can help prevent ankle sprains.
Stretching and strengthening exercises for the ankles can also reduce the risk of injury. If an ankle sprain does occur, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) technique should be applied immediately, followed by physical therapy if necessary.
Knee Injuries
Knee injuries, such as patellar tendinitis and meniscus tears, can occur in pickleball due to the jumping and twisting movements involved in the game. Patellar tendinitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is an overuse injury characterized by pain in the front of the knee.
It is caused by repetitive jumping and landing. Meniscus tears, on the other hand, can occur when the knee is twisted forcefully. To prevent knee injuries, players should use proper footwear, warm up adequately, and strengthen the muscles around the knee. If a knee injury does occur, rest, ice, compression, and elevation can be applied, and medical attention may be necessary.
Conclusion
While pickleball is generally a safe sport with a lower risk of Common Injuries from Pickleball compared to high-impact sports, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions. Wearing appropriate gear, using proper technique, warming up adequately, and listening to your body are essential to prevent injuries. If any injuries do occur, seeking medical attention and following appropriate recovery protocols are crucial for a safe and effective return to the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common injuries in pickleball include sprained ankles, tennis elbow, shoulder strains, knee and wrist sprains, and muscle strains.
To prevent ankle injuries, it is crucial to wear supportive shoes with ankle stability, warm up before playing, and avoid sudden directional changes or overextending your ankles during shots.
To prevent tennis elbow, make sure to use proper technique and grip while hitting shots. Regularly stretch and strengthen your forearm muscles, and take breaks in between games to rest your arm.
If you strain your shoulder during play, immediately rest, apply ice to the affected area, and avoid any repetitive movements that aggravate the pain. Consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and follow their recommended treatment plan.
To reduce the risk of knee injuries, it is important to maintain strong quadriceps and hamstring muscles through targeted exercises. Wearing knee pads can provide extra support and protection. Additionally, be cautious of sudden stops, pivots, or jumping movements that may strain the knee joints.