How to prevent Pickleball injuries?

Pickleball isn’t a high-impact sport, but certain parts can have an impact on the body. Frequently altering directions puts excessive strain on the ankles, knees, and hips.

Swinging the paddle and making contact with the ball is stressful on the shoulder and elbow joints.

Falling can also cause injuries. Also, sometimes there may happen unwanted sensitive eye injuries or, bone fractures.

Here, you’ll be going to know the most common Pickleball injuries and how to prevent pickleball injuries.

How to prevent pickleball injuries?

Prevention is key when it comes to pickleball injuries. Here are some tips to help minimize the risk:

Warm-up and stretch:

Before playing pickleball, it is crucial to warm up your muscles and stretch properly. This helps to increase blood flow and flexibility, reducing the risk of strains and sprains.

Wear proper footwear:

Invest in good-quality court shoes that provide stability and support for quick movements. Make sure they are appropriate for the pickleball court surface.

Use protective gear:

Consider wearing knee pads or elbow sleeves to provide extra support and cushioning to vulnerable areas.

Practice proper technique:

Learning the correct technique for hitting the ball and moving on the court can help reduce the strain on your body.

Take breaks and listen to your body:

If you start feeling fatigued or notice any pain or discomfort, take a break and give your body time to rest and recover. Pushing through pain can lead to more serious injuries.

What are the dangers of pickleball?

Pickleball is generally considered to be a safe and low-impact sport.

However, like any physical activity, there are some risks involved. Pickleball can cause various injuries due to the fast-paced nature of the game and the repetitive movements involved.

These injuries can range from minor strains and sprains to more severe conditions like tennis elbow or knee injuries. It is essential to be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to prevent them.

Some of the potential dangers of pickleball include:

Collisions:

While racing for the ball, players may collide with one another, resulting in injuries such as bruises, cuts, and sprains.

Injury from falls:

Pickleball courts can become slippery when wet, and players may stumble and fall, resulting in potential injury.

Overuse injuries:

Frequent pickleball play can result in overuse injuries including elbow, shoulder, and knee pain.

Eye injuries:

The ball used in pickleball is small and can move quickly, it poses a risk of eye injuries if it strikes a player in the face.

Sun exposure:

Pickleball is often played outdoors, and players may be at risk of sunburn, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.

Why pickleball injuries are on the rise?

With the increasing popularity of pickleball, the number of injuries is also on the rise. as more people of different ages and fitness levels try out pickleball, the risk of injuries increases.

Growing popularity:

Pickleball is becoming increasingly popular, with an increasing number of individuals taking up the activity.

This comprises not only youthful athletes, but also seniors and retirees. More players equals more chances for injury.

Improper technique:

Many new pickleball players have not played this sports before and have improper technique that can contribute to injuries.

Things like failing to rotate the core appropriately when striking strokes and lunging for dropped shots.

Lack of fitness:

Many new pickleball players have not practiced active sports in a long time and lack the physical fitness and muscular balance required to support joints all over pickleball’s challenges.

Quick movements:

The dynamic nature of pickleball with its quick starts, stops, and changes of direction brings a thrilling energy to the game, allowing players to showcase their agility and skill.

While it may put some stress on joints, tendons, and ligaments, it also presents an opportunity for players to strengthen and improve their overall mobility and flexibility.

Lack of using injury preventive products:

Many pickleball players do not use protective equipment like wrist guards, ankle braces, and knee pads that can help prevent common injuries.

These injury preventive products are not mandatory but vital for new players or whom they are playing overtime.

Pickleball Injury Statistics:

Pickleball has surged in popularity in recent years, particularly among seniors. However, the sport has a relatively high injury risk profile that is driving up healthcare costs.

Most pickleball injuries occur in people over age 60, with sprains, strains and fractures making up the majority.

As more seniors take up the sport, the number of pickleball-related medical visits and procedures is on the rise.

CNN Analysts estimate that in 2022 there will be:

• 67,000 emergency room visits
• 366,000 outpatient visits
• 9,000 outpatient surgeries

Related to pickleball injuries, costing a total of $377 million.

The rapid growth of pickleball from 3.5 million players in 2019 to a projected 22 million players this year means more opportunities for injuries, especially in the at-risk senior population.

What to do if you experience a pickleball injury?

If you experience a pickleball injury, it is important to take it seriously and seek appropriate medical attention.

• Stop playing immediately – Don’t try to push through the pain or injury, as this can make it worse.
• Ice the injured area – Ice for 15-20 minutes within the first two hours to reduce swelling and pain. Apply ice packs or use an ice massage.
• Compress the injury with a brace or wrap – This can help stabilize the injury, reduce pain and limit further damage.
• Rest the injury – Avoid strenuous activities that involve the injured area for at least a few days. Give it time to heal.
• Take or, Spray pain relievers – Taking or spraying pain relievers can help manage symptoms in the initial days. They work by providing temporary relief from muscle and joint pain associated with strains, sprains and bruises. But see your doctor right away if the pain does not improve or gets worse.
• See a doctor if needed – If the pain persists or gets worse after 48-72 hours of rest, ice and elevation, see your healthcare provider. They can diagnose the exact injury and prescribe treatments.

FAQs:

Final Words:

The Pickleball sport has a relatively high injury risk profile that is driving up healthcare costs.

So, the important to know, how to prevent pickleball injuries to prevent unwanted healthcare costs.

While pickleball injuries can occur, following these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of getting hurt.

Remember to warm up, wear proper footwear and protective gear, practice good technique, and keep fit in your body.

By taking these steps, you can enjoy pickleball while minimizing the chances of injuries.

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