The 5 Most Common Injuries in Pickleball

Pickleball is an exciting and popular sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. With its growing popularity, it's important to be aware of the potential injuries that can occur while playing. In this blog post, we'll explore the five most common injuries in pickleball and discuss how they can be prevented.

1. Sprains - A Common Misstep:

   • Sprains occur when you stretch a ligament too far, often due to moving a joint in an unusual way. This can happen when you twist your knee or roll your ankle during gameplay. The severity of sprains can vary, ranging from mild to severe, and are categorized into grades. To prevent sprains, make sure to warm up properly before playing and practice proper body mechanics during the game.

2. Tendonitis Rupture - The Result of Repetitive Strain:

   • Tendinitis, inflammation of a tendon, can affect various parts of the body, including the elbow, shoulder, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. In pickleball, players are particularly prone to tendinitis in the elbow and shoulder areas due to the repetitive movements required by the sport. Overuse and inadequate recovery are common contributing factors. To avoid tendonitis, ensure you have proper rest periods between matches and incorporate strength and flexibility exercises into your routine.

3. Strains - When Muscles Face a Challenge:

   • Muscle strains occur when muscle fibers are stretched or torn, often due to sudden and forceful movements. In pickleball, players frequently experience strains in their leg muscles because of the quick movements and abrupt stops involved. To minimize the risk of strains, incorporate a comprehensive warm-up regimen, including dynamic stretching, before hitting the court.

4. Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Tear - A Common Upper Body Concern:

   • Shoulder impingement is a condition where the tendons in your shoulder become compressed or pinched, leading to discomfort and pain. Rotator cuff tears can also occur in the shoulder, potentially affecting your gameplay and causing significant discomfort. Repetitive overhead shots and serves in pickleball can contribute to these injuries. Strengthening exercises for the shoulder and adopting proper technique while serving can help reduce the likelihood of impingement or tears.

5. Wrist Fracture - A Fall's Consequence:

   • Fractures, or breaks in the bone, can happen when players fall or execute sudden stops during pickleball matches. Wrist and ankle fractures are particularly common in this sport. To protect your wrists, consider wearing wrist guards and practicing proper falling techniques to minimise the impact.

Pickleball is an enjoyable and engaging sport suitable for players of all ages. However, it's crucial to be mindful of the potential injuries that can occur during play. By understanding the most common injuries like sprains, tendinitis, strains, shoulder impingement, and wrist fractures, players can take proactive steps to prevent them. Incorporating proper warm-up routines, strengthening exercises, and using protective gear can all contribute to a safer and more enjoyable pickleball experience.

Remember, while injuries are possible in any sport, with the right precautions and techniques, you can minimise the risk and focus on the fun and excitement of the game!