Rising Popularity of Pickleball Leads to Increase in Related Injuries: Experts Offer Tips for Prevention
Pickleball Injuries on the Rise as Sport’s Popularity Grows
BIRMINGHAM, Ala (WBMA) — Pickleball, a sport that has been rapidly gaining popularity across America, is also seeing a significant increase in related injuries. The sport, which appeals to players of all ages, has a particularly large following among adults over 55.
Andrew Brymer, a pickleball enthusiast who plays twice a week, shared his experience with the sport, saying, “A friend of mine, he played all the time, so I just went to join and get some exercise.” Brymer emphasized the benefits of staying active through pickleball, stating, “It’s still active. It still gets my heart rate up.”
However, Brymer recently suffered a setback when he tore his meniscus while playing in March. Reflecting on the injury, he admitted, “I tore my meniscus playing back in March of this year. Going for a ball I probably should’ve left alone.” It took him several months to recover and return to the court.
A recent study has shown a 90-fold increase in pickleball-related fractures, with a noticeable surge in fractures doubling from 2020 onwards.
Orthopedic surgeon Thomas Evely from the University of Alabama at Birmingham commented on the variety of injuries seen in pickleball players of different ages. He noted that most injuries are sprains and strains of the muscles and joints.
To prevent injuries, Evely recommended players to stay hydrated, stretch before playing, and use appropriate equipment. He emphasized the importance of a good warm-up, focusing on areas like the hamstring, quadriceps, calf, shoulders, and hip flexor. Using supportive athletic shoes and the right size handle for the racket can also help avoid injuries to the feet, ankles, hands, wrists, and elbows.
For Brymer, the injury served as a lesson learned. He now always wears a knee brace while playing and tries to play smarter to avoid further injuries.
Experts advise players to learn and use proper techniques for hitting, serving, and moving on the court to reduce stress on the body. Taking pickleball lessons with an expert can help players learn these techniques and prevent injuries in the future.
