Orthopedic Surgeon and Pickleball Player Provides First Aid at U.S. Open Championships
Orthopedic surgeon and pickleball player, Dr. Christina Kabbash, is at the forefront of first aid at the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships in East Naples Community Park. With more than 2,000 athletes participating in the tournament, injuries are common among the highly competitive and fast-paced sport.
Kabbash, who joined Physicians Regional Healthcare System in January, is no stranger to sports-related injuries, having been a triathlete and marathon runner herself. She understands the mindset of athletes who push through pain but emphasizes the importance of seeking medical treatment when needed.
The tournament, now in its third year and the largest worldwide, showcases the growing popularity of pickleball among players of all ages. With over 2.8 million pickleball players in the U.S. in 2017, the sport is attracting a diverse range of participants.
As the lead physician at the first-aid tent, Kabbash treats a variety of injuries, from calf strains to muscle cramps, and educates players on the importance of proper warm-up and hydration. She also dispenses pickle juice, known for its muscle cramp-relieving properties, to athletes in need.
With pickleball courts becoming a must-have amenity in gated communities across Southwest Florida, Kabbash’s presence at the tournament highlights the growing importance of medical support in sports events. As the tournament continues to draw high-level athletes of all ages, Kabbash remains committed to providing top-notch care for pickleball players in need.
