The Pickleball Phenomenon: Fun, fast, and...filled with injury?
Pickleball. It seems everyone is talking about the fastest-growing sport in America that blends tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Community centers, newly converted tennis courts, and even dedicated Pickleball clubs are filled every weekend with experienced players and intrigued newcomers. Its accessibility, social nature, and relatively easy learning curve have drawn in millions, from seasoned athletes seeking a new challenge to those simply looking for a fun way to stay active.
But with this meteoric rise in popularity comes a less talked-about trend: the rise in pickleball-related injuries. While a fantastic way to boost cardiovascular health and hand-eye coordination, the quick bursts of movement, sudden stops, and repetitive motions can put unexpected stress on the body.
Why are pickleball injuries on the rise?
There are several components that contribute to this increase:
Age Demographics: Pickleball appeals to a wide age range, including many older adults who might be less accustomed to the intense physical activity required. Pre-existing conditions or a lack of proper conditioning can also make them more susceptible to injury.
Deceptively Intense: Don't let the smaller court fool you. Pickleball involves rapid changes in direction, lunging, reaching, and quick pivots. These are all movements that can strain joints and muscles if not performed with proper technique and conditioning.
Repetitive Motions: The constant swinging of the paddle and the frequent quick steps can lead to overuse injuries, particularly in the ankles, elbows, and knees.
Lack of Warm-up/Cool-down: Many casual players jump onto the court without adequate preparation, leaving their muscles and joints unprepared for the demands of the game.
Common Pickleball Injuries We're Seeing
At Accelerated Sports Therapy & Fitness, we've seen a noticeable increase in patients seeking help for pickleball-related issues. Some of the most common injuries include:
Achilles Tendinitis/Tear: The repetitive push-off from the balls of the feet can inflame the Achilles tendon, even to the point of tearing.
Ankle Sprains: Quick lateral movements and sudden stops can easily lead to a twisted ankle.
Knee Pain: Twisting motions and sudden changes in direction put significant stress on the knees.
Shoulder Injuries: The overhead hits and repetitive swings can take a toll on the shoulder joint.
Elbow Pain (Tennis Elbow/Golfer's Elbow): Like other racket sports, repetitive gripping and swinging can lead to inflammation in the elbow tendons.
Hamstring and Calf Strains: Explosive movements and quick acceleration often result in muscle strains in the legs.
Lower Back Pain: Twisting and bending during play can aggravate or cause lower back issues.
Wrist Injuries: The repetitive motions or holding the paddle too tightly, leading to overuse injuries.
How Accelerated Sports Can Help You Stay on the Court
The good news is that many pickleball injuries are preventable, and for those that do occur, physical therapy is very effective in facilitating recovery and preventing recurrence. At Accelerated Sports Therapy, our experienced therapists are well-versed in the biomechanics of pickleball and offer comprehensive solutions.
Don't let an injury sideline you from the joy of pickleball! If you're experiencing pain or want to proactively prepare your body for the demands of the game, contact us today. We're here to help you enjoy this popular sport safely for years to come.