As populations age, many adults between 40 and 60 are increasingly turning to low-impact sports like pickleball to stay active and socially engaged, with pickleball players growing from 3.46 million in 2019 to nearly 20 million in 2024. However, these activities can unmask chronic, age-related wear and tear in muscles and joints, leading to a rise in injuries among previously less active individuals. Experts emphasize that while staying active is crucial for health and mental well-being, older athletes must approach exercise mindfully by incorporating varied activities and resistance training to strengthen vulnerable muscles and prevent injury.
When injuries do occur, treatment options have advanced beyond surgery, with non-invasive therapies like shock wave and platelet-rich plasma injections becoming more common. For cases requiring surgery, modern techniques such as personalized outpatient knee replacements enable quicker recovery and return to activity. Ultimately, maintaining strength and mobility through consistent, balanced exercise allows older adults to enjoy sports safely and sustain independence, reinforcing the idea that movement is medicine for a healthier, happier life.
