The Pickleball Pandemic: How the Fastest Growing Sport is Causing a Surge in Injuries Among Seniors
Pickleball Injuries on the Rise Among Active Seniors
Pickleball, the popular paddle sport that has taken the senior community by storm, is causing a wave of injuries among its most dedicated players. With its origins dating back to 1965, pickleball has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, especially among active elders looking for a fun and competitive way to stay in shape.
Val Thomopalos, a 63-year-old pickleball enthusiast from Florida, has experienced firsthand the toll that the sport can take on the body. Despite her love for the game and the sense of camaraderie it brings, Thomopalos has suffered three pickleball-related injuries in just a year and a half. From strained calves to knee ligament issues, she has had to take multiple breaks from the game to recover.
Experts like Dr. Samir Mehta, chief of orthopedic trauma and fracture care at Penn Medicine, have noticed a trend of overuse injuries among older pickleball players. With retirees playing several hours a day and pushing their bodies to the limit, issues like tendonitis, arthritis, and muscle sprains are becoming more common. The older demographic is also at a higher risk for fractures due to weaker bones.
Despite the risks, pickleball remains a beloved pastime for many seniors who enjoy the fast-paced, strategic nature of the game. Players like Alan Weinberger, a retired Wall Street executive, have found a sense of fulfillment and camaraderie in the sport, despite dealing with their fair share of injuries.
To prevent pickleball injuries, experts recommend a combination of stretching, warm-ups, balance exercises, and cross-training. Listening to your body and knowing when to take a break is also crucial in avoiding overuse injuries. Players like Weinberger and Thomopalos have incorporated these practices into their routines to stay healthy and continue enjoying the game they love.
While pickleball injuries may be on the rise, the passion and dedication of players like Thomopalos and Weinberger show no signs of waning. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, it’s important for players of all ages to prioritize their health and well-being to ensure they can continue playing for years to come.
