Pickleball has officially become America’s fastest growing sport nationwide. An estimated 8.9 million active participants have joined the sport with a staggering 158.6% growth rate over the past three years. From backyard enthusiasts to professional players on tour this sport is far from slowing down according to the SFIA (Sports and Fitness Industry Association). Along with any sport, pickle ball comes with its own set of challenges.
According to Forbes magazine an estimated $400 million will be spent on pickleball injuries with seniors being affected the most. In discussion of the most common injuries, we will also touch on preventative measures to avoid injury and ensure longevity
The 7 Most Common Pickleball Injuries
With sprained ankles, and elbow pain topping the list, the most common pickleball injuries include strains and sprains, especially in the shoulders, elbows, knees, and ankles due to the repetitive nature of the game. Overuse injuries like tendonitis can also occur from frequent play without proper rest and recovery.
- Sprained Ankles– Due to quick lateral movements, sharp turns and abrupt stops thenature of the sport puts excessive stress on the ligaments surrounding the ankle.
- Elbow Tendonitis – “Pickleball Elbow” more commonly known as “Tennis Elbow” is a painful condition caused by overuse of the tendons in the forearm creating irritation and inflammation.
- Shoulder “Rotator Cuff” Strains– Repetitive overhead and lateral swinging movements create this overuse injury resulting in sharp pain limiting range of motion and muscle activation.
- Knee Injuries– Quick movements and change in direction cause a variety of knee injuries from minor sprains/strains to more severe ligament tears or fractures after a fall.
- Wrist Sprains– Overuse and falls are the most common culprits of wrist injuries. FOOSH “Fall-on-out-stretched-hand” injuries occur after abrupt impact with a hard surface on the hand/wrist resulting in upper extremity injuries.
- Low back Pain– Repetitive reaching, bending, twisting and improper posture during play may result in localized pain of the lower spine. A more serious injury known as “Sciatica” in which injury or pressure occurs to the sciatic nerve resulting in weakness, burning, numbness or tingling travels down into the buttock or leg.
- Calf Strain/Achilles Tendonitis– Overstretching of the calf muscle from running and jumping during play can lead to calf strains/Achilles tendonitis and inflammation of the lower leg. Symptoms include: swelling, dull, sharp or achy pain in the muscle belly of the calf or along the tendon as it inserts on the heel of the foot.
What Treatments are available to resolve my Pickleball Injuries?
P-R-I-C-E: PROCTECT-REST-ICE-COMPRESSION-ELEVATION
PHYSICAL THERAPY:
The treatment of physical dysfunction or injury by implementing therapeutic exercise and application on modalities to restore normal function.
SPORTS CHIROPRACTIC CARE:
Chiropractic care is a safe, effective means of treating a variety of conditions and injuries. Proper musculoskeletal alignment–especially when it comes to the spine can often help the body heal itself, making it a positive, conservative alternative means of care which can sometimes eliminate the need for medication and surgery.
Dry Needling is a skilled intervention performed by a trained professional that uses a thin filiform needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying neural, muscular and connective tissues for the evaluation and management of neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairments.
Fascial Manipulation is a system of mapping, evaluating and treating the inherent tension connections within the myofascial system. It is likely the deepest and most effective soft tissue technique you have felt.
The DRX9000 True Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression System is designed to provide pain relief for compressive and degenerative injuries of the spine.
Kinesio Taping/Dynamic Taping
The therapeutic application of elastic adhesive tape developed to provide support and aid proprioception.
Bracing
A properly applied brace will restrict movement and relieve pressure from joints including; spine, knee, ankle, elbow or wrist.
Also known as EPAT Shockwave Therapy, Pressure Wave Therapy is a modern and highly effective treatment: Strong energy pulses are applied to injured painful areas of the body.
PEMF Therapy
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF), is a reparative technique used to treat acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries.
Active Myofascial Release Technique:
Myofascial Release Techniques require advanced training, a mastery of anatomy and rigorous study. Active Release Technique combines specific soft tissue release therapy with precise movements.
E-stim Therapy: Electrical stimulation involves the application of safe electrical currents through the skin into the muscles and involved tissue. This therapy may aid in reducing pain, stimulate tissue healing and strengthen muscles.
Therapeutic Massage: Mobilization of the soft tissue in order to induce relaxation. Therapeutic massage can aid in reducing stress, decrease pain and improve overall well-being.
Remember that if you experience persistent pain or discomfort after an injury while playing pickleball, it’s essential to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Your health should always come first so you can continue enjoying this exciting sport safely.
Pickleball Injury Prevention
Proper Warmup: Applying dynamic movements to your warmup will ensure elasticity by increasing tissue temperature and bringing blood to the activated muscle, tendon or ligament. (Examples: arm circles, calf raises, leg swings, jogging)
Proper form and Posture: A balanced posture helps eliminate unnecessary tension on tissues that lead to injury and dysfunction.
Proactive training: A personalized training program helps us be more “proactive” and less “reactive” after an injury occurs. Personalized programs analyze gate, muscle weakness/imbalances, and posture. This program is catered to your specific needs and limitations to help you reach optimal results on the court.
Improve flexibility: As we age, tissues naturally become stiffer and more prone to injury. A consistent stretching program helps limit unnecessary muscle strains.
Know when to stop: Pain is the body’s natural way of telling you to slow down or stop an activity. When addressing pain, it is important to implement proper treatment and preventative measures to ensure a speedy recovery and avoid future injury.
Proper Technique and Equipment: How They Can Help Prevent Pickleball Injuries
When it comes to enjoying pickleball to the fullest, focusing on proper technique and using the right equipment is crucial in preventing injuries. By following pickleball technique tips and investing in suitable gear, players can significantly reduce the risk of common injuries associated with this fast-paced sport.
One of the key aspects of injury prevention in pickleball is mastering the correct technique. Whether it’s maintaining a stable stance, executing precise shots, or moving efficiently on the court, honing your skills can help minimize strain on your body and lower the chances of sprains or strains.
In addition to technique, choosing the appropriate equipment plays a vital role in safeguarding against injuries during pickleball matches. From selecting paddles that offer optimal grip and control to wearing supportive footwear that provides stability and cushioning, having the right gear can enhance performance while reducing the likelihood of accidents.
By incorporating proper form and utilizing suitable equipment into your pickleball routine, you not only improve your gameplay but also prioritize your safety on the court. Remember, injury prevention starts with understanding how to play smart and equip yourself with tools that support your well-being throughout every match.
For more information on pickleball or related sports chiropractic contact Pro Chiro in Bozeman.