Study Suggests Older Adults Should Consult Doctor Before Taking Up Pickleball
The popular sport of pickleball may not be as harmless as it seems, according to a new study by public health researchers at the University of Arkansas. The study, published in the journal Health, found that pickleball-related injuries are more frequent and severe than previously thought, especially among players over the age of 50.
Researchers Ches Jones and Bart Hammig analyzed data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System and found that 87% of all pickleball-related injury incidents that required an emergency room visit occurred in participants older than 50. The most common injuries were fractures, sprains, and internal organ injuries, with one out of five cases requiring hospitalization.
The study also revealed that different age groups were prone to different types of injuries. Younger players under the age of 26 were more likely to misuse sports equipment, while middle-aged players between 26 and 50 experienced injuries related to overuse. Older players, on the other hand, were at a higher risk of cardiac arrest or other severe cardiovascular conditions due to the intense bursts of movement required in pickleball.
“Pickleball requires short bursts of intense movement, which can be risky for untrained individuals, especially those susceptible to heart disease,” explained Jones. “While pickleball is marketed as a family-friendly game, participants may be putting themselves at risk for injury and cardiac events without the physiological benefits of a more sustained physical activity program.”
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, the researchers suggest that players, especially those over 50, should consult a doctor before taking up the sport to assess their risk factors and ensure their safety. The findings of this study serve as a reminder that even seemingly low-impact sports can pose risks, especially as we age.
