How to Prevent Common Pickleball Injuries

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the United States, and it’s gaining popularity in Middle Georgia. Macon-Bibb County has dedicated pickleball courts at Tattnall Square Park and John Drew Smith Tennis Center with plans to develop an indoor pickleball center in the “old mall.”  

Because of the sport’s growing popularity in our area, it’s common for OrthoGeorgia to treat patients with injuries sustained on the pickleball court. Pickleball injuries are often similar to those experienced by tennis players due to the similarity in movement and style of play.

OrthoGeorgia enjoys helping pickleball players get back onto the court after an injury. We also strive to help reduce the risk of injury while staying active. This article will examine some common injuries for pickleball players and provide tips to avoid joint or muscle injury.

Common Injuries for Pickleball Players

Knee or Ankle Injuries

Injuries to knees and ankles are common for pickleball players. Quick turning, stopping, and running can take a toll on joints such as the knee and ankle. Players often experience minor injuries such as:

• Knee sprains
• Ankle sprains
• Tendonitis
• Hyperextended joints

There is also the risk of sustaining more severe injuries to these joints, such as fractures or tears in ligaments.

Achilles Injuries

The Achilles tendon connects your heel and calf muscle and plays a key role for pickleball players. The Achilles helps you jump, run, and move quickly on the pickleball court. Two of the most common types of Achilles injuries are:

• Tendonitis
• Rupture or tear

Depending on the severity of your Achilles injury, your treatment plan may require surgery.

Wrist and Hand Injuries

Your wrists and hands are essential for making all types of game-winning shots on the pickleball court. It’s common for pickleball players to experience a wrist or hand injury due to overuse or when trying to break their fall if they lose their balance.

Some common wrist and hand injuries include:

• Wrist fractures or sprains
• Finger fractures or sprains
• Arthritis

Elbow and Shoulder Injuries

Elbows and shoulders are also susceptible to injury due to overuse or a fall. Some common injuries to these joints include:

• Tennis elbow
• Shoulder bursitis
• Shoulder tendonitis

Our Orthopaedic Specialists are Ready to Care for You. Call (478) 745-4206 Today!

How to Prevent Pickleball Injuries

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks of injury, there are some simple things you can do to reduce your risk of getting hurt while playing pickleball. We’ve gathered some tips below:

Wear Proper Shoes

While you may love to wear your flip-flops around on a warm day, we don’t recommend you play pickleball without wearing sturdy, stable tennis shoes. When trying on shoes, we recommend active wear shoes designed to provide maximum support to your ankles and knees while you move around the pickleball court.

Warm Up & Stretch Before Your Play

When you get to the pickleball court, you’re likely excited to join your friends and jump into the fun. But it’s essential not to neglect warming up and stretching to reduce your risk of injury. Even taking 15 minutes to gently stretch your legs, back, arms, and shoulders can make a big difference when you get out on the court. You can even do warm-up pickleball drills to prepare your body for a full-speed game.

Stay Hydrated

Especially in the blistering heat we experience in Middle Georgia, it’s critical to stay hydrated while playing pickleball. Hydration reduces your risk of injuries, such as a pulled muscle or a fall due to exhaustion. Hydration keeps your brain alert to improve your overall focus during an intense match.

Trust the Orthopaedic Experts at OrthoGeorgia!

Since our founding more than 60 years ago, OrthoGeorgia has built a reputation of excellence. We are the go-to choice for our community’s most elite athletes and weekend warriors.

We’re ready to help you return to the pickleball court free of pain!

We’re Ready to Care for You and Your Family. Call Us at (478) 745-4206 Today!