Pickleball injuries are becoming more common as the game continues to grow in popularity. Our office is seeing a continual increase in the number of patients with injuries after playing Pickleball. Pickleball has exploded because of how easy and fun it is…especially with older, retired folks looking to stay active.

Even with the risk, the game offers activities which help increase mobility, and improve cardiac and vascular health. With proper equipment and warm-up the risks can be diminished. Bumps and bruises are going to be a part of the game but avoiding a serious debilitating injury is paramount. 

COMMON INJURIES;

By far the most common injuries are to the ankle and the knee from sprain or slight tear of a ligament. Achilles tendon strain from stop and go, or change of direction, heel strain from overuse injury, knee sprain  of medial collateral ligament, hamstring strain  from overextending and reaching for the ball, wrist fracture from falling backward and landing on extended arm, and shoulder strain from overuse and swinging too hard on overhead shots.

HOW TO AVOID INJURIES;

Probably the most important part in avoiding injuries is proper warm-up and the shoes that you are wearing. Wearing the proper court shoes allows you to move and shuffle around the court without too much resistance is mandatory. Court shoes are just what they imply–shoes to wear when playing on a court floor of any kind.  The bottom of the shoe needs to be able to give or slide on the court when reaching for a shot. You must be able to move forward and backwards without your shoes catching on the floor. Many brands make court shoes and the investment is well worth it. Some tennis shoes actually may cause your injury as they may be designed for grip and not allow you the proper amount of movement for the game. It cannot be overstate the proper shoes is probably the most important issue in avoiding injuries.

Warm-up is the 2^nd most important factor. A simple stretching of both the upper and lower extremities for 10 to 15 minutes prior to playing the game will go a long way in helping to reduce injuries.

Good players bend at their knees (like a squat position) and coil and uncoil their upper body. Unfortunately, many players bend from their waist, and use their arms to hit the ball. Good balance is also important, and helps you get ready for that second and third shot.

Pickleball can help you increase your overall sense of well-being (leave in a good mood). When you play hard, but within your physical limits, rest and stay hydrated. Stop the game if you feel dizzy or light headed. Always have a water bottle and snack bar with you every time you play.

TREATMENTS:

Most of the injuries responded very well to conservative treatment. The treatment usually consists of neuromodulation therapy to reduce inflammation and swelling, and when indicated bracing. Many injuries resolve within a few therapies. However, some injuries are more substantial and require a more complex and involve treatment program. Each injury and each individual must be evaluated in the amount of injury must be determined prior to the proper treatment protocol. In most cases the patient is able to return back to playing the game within just a couple of weeks.