Pickleball-Related Injuries and Chiropractic
Pickleball, a recreational sport that has been steadily gaining popularity in the United States, is making waves in the sports world. Over the past few years, it has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sports in America, with its player base skyrocketing from 3.5 million to an impressive 8.9 million. The reasons behind this surge in interest are numerous: it's easy to learn, fosters competitiveness and socialization, and offers an excellent form of low-impact exercise. However, like any sport, pickleball is not without its risks, and players should be aware of the potential for injuries.
In the year 2021, researchers conducted a comprehensive study that analyzed data from emergency department visits spanning the years 2010 to 2019. Their findings shed light on the dark side of pickleball, revealing nearly 29,000 pickleball-related injuries among older adults during this period. The most frequently occurring injuries included sprains and strains (accounting for 32.2% of cases), fractures (28.1%), and contusions (10.6%). A concerning gender disparity emerged from this data: older men were 3.5 times more likely than older women to suffer sprains or strains, while older women faced a 3.7 times higher risk of sustaining fractures, including a staggering nine-fold increased risk of wrist fractures. These acute traumatic injuries could result from various scenarios, including falls, abrupt turning or pivoting movements, being struck by a racket or paddle, getting hit by a ball, sudden bending over or hyperextending the spine, rolling an ankle, or colliding with various obstacles such as nets, fences, walls, chairs, benches, trees, or fellow players.
Due to the similarity of physical movements involved in pickleball and tennis, frequent pickleball players may also be at an increased risk for a condition known as lateral epicondylitis, commonly referred to as tennis elbow. This painful condition arises when the tendons attached to the elbow become overloaded. Moreover, pickleball enthusiasts may find themselves susceptible to other musculoskeletal conditions related to repetitive movements, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
As a result of these potential injuries, doctors of chiropractic may find themselves treating patients with a combination of acute traumatic musculoskeletal injuries and repetitive stress injuries over time. Typical treatment approaches will encompass a multimodal strategy that involves manual therapies, targeted exercises, modalities, dietary recommendations, and modifications to physical activity. The aim of this approach is to restore normal motion to the affected joints, reduce inflammation, and provide the injured site with the opportunity to heal effectively.
Intriguingly, the 2021 study also unveiled another startling statistic: approximately one in every ten emergency room visits related to pickleball was due to cardiovascular events. This finding underscores the importance of being cautious, especially for older individuals who may not have engaged in regular physical activity. Before embarking on an exercise routine that includes pickleball, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physician, to ensure that you are physically prepared for the demands of the sport.
In addition to seeking health advice, there are several practical steps that pickleball players can take to minimize the risk of injury and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the court. These include dressing appropriately for play, engaging in thorough stretching before stepping onto the court, staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and taking breaks as needed. It is essential not to push yourself beyond your physical limits, maintain a reasonable pace, and remember that the primary focus should be on having fun and building social connections with fellow players.
In conclusion, pickleball's remarkable rise in popularity is a testament to its appeal as a recreational sport that combines physical activity, competitiveness, and social engagement. However, it is crucial to recognize that like any physical activity, pickleball comes with inherent risks, including acute traumatic injuries and repetitive stress conditions. By understanding these risks, seeking professional guidance, and adopting safe practices, players can continue to enjoy the game while minimizing the chances of sustaining injuries. Ultimately, a proactive approach to safety and well-being ensures that pickleball remains a fun and accessible sport for all.
Written by Dr Diego Caban from OrthoTrust