Did you know that as pickleball’s popularity skyrockets, so do the number of injuries? It’s true—our beloved sport is seeing a rise in fractures and other injuries. Don’t worry, though!
We’ve got some eye-opening insights from a recent study that might surprise you. Let’s dive in and learn how we can keep the fun going while staying safe on the court.
Pickleball Boom: The Surprising Rise in Fractures
From 2002 to 2022, there was a staggering 90-fold increase in pickleball-related fractures in the United States. Yes, you read that right—90-fold! This study, using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), revealed that approximately 5,400 fractures occur annually among pickleball players.
It’s clear that as more people take up the paddle, the number of injuries has risen significantly.
Who’s Getting Hurt?
Interestingly, the majority of these fractures—about 87%—occurred in players aged 60 and above, with women making up 69% of the injured. Most fractures involved the upper extremity, particularly the radius, humerus, and ulna.
The primary cause? Falls, which accounted for 92% of the fractures. Winter months saw the highest number of injuries, which might be due to more indoor play where surfaces can be more challenging.
Why Are We Seeing More Fractures?
So, why are fractures on the rise in pickleball? It boils down to the sport’s incredible accessibility. Pickleball is affordable, easy to learn, and popular among older adults looking for fun exercise. This accessibility, though, might be driving up injury rates.
As the sport grows, so does the diversity in player age and skill levels. Traditionally a “senior” sport, pickleball now attracts younger players, leading to a mix of abilities on the court. New players might not be familiar with best practices for safety, like proper warm-ups, appropriate footwear, and safe falling techniques, which can contribute to more injuries.
Interestingly, most of these injuries occur in senior women over 60. Why? As we age, bone density decreases, especially in postmenopausal women, making bones more susceptible to fractures. Falls, the most common cause of pickleball injuries, can have a greater impact on older adults due to this decreased bone strength.
Additionally, the competitive nature of pickleball can push some to overexert themselves, resulting in fractures. Playing conditions also play a role—indoor courts, especially in winter, can be slippery, leading to more falls.
The sport’s popularity is fantastic, but we need to stay informed and take precautions to enjoy pickleball safely. Let’s keep playing smart and stay injury-free on the court!
The Gender Disparity
One notable finding is the difference in injury severity between men and women. Despite more women being injured, men were 2.3 times more likely to be admitted to the hospital after a fracture.
This could be due to the types of fractures sustained, with men more often experiencing more severe injuries to the trunk and lower extremities.
Staying Safe on the Court
So, what can we do to stay safe while playing pickleball and avoid fractures? Here are some practical tips:
- Warm Up Wisely: A good warm-up gets your body ready for action. Focus on gentle stretches and movements to loosen up your muscles and joints.
- Choose the Right Shoes: Invest in quality court shoes that offer good support and traction. This can help prevent slips and falls.
- Stay Mindful: Pay attention to your movements and surroundings. Be aware of potential hazards on the court and avoid risky maneuvers.
- Check the Court: Make sure the playing surface is clean and dry. If you’re indoors, ensure the floor isn’t slippery.
- Pace Yourself: Don’t push beyond your limits. Take breaks when needed and avoid overexerting yourself, especially if you’re new to the game or returning after a break.
Learn Safe Falling Techniques
Knowing how to fall correctly can reduce the risk of serious injury. Many community centers and senior programs offer classes on fall prevention and safe falling techniques. These classes are often taught by professionals who specialize in physical therapy or martial arts, and they can provide hands-on instruction and feedback.
If a class isn’t available, you can practice safe falling techniques at home. Here are a few basic tips:
- Tuck and Roll: When you feel yourself starting to fall, try to tuck your chin to your chest and roll onto your side or back. This helps distribute the impact more evenly across your body.
- Protect Your Head: Always try to protect your head by tucking your chin and using your arms to shield your face.
- Relax Your Body: Tension can increase the risk of injury. Try to stay as relaxed as possible when you fall, allowing your body to absorb the impact more naturally.
- Use Your Arms and Legs: If you’re falling forward, try to absorb the impact with your forearms and roll to your side. If you’re falling backward, use your hands and arms to protect your head and roll to one side.
Whether you’re playing for fun or competition, being mindful of injury risks can help ensure that pickleball remains an enjoyable and safe activity for everyone. So, let’s get out there, stay active, and most importantly, stay safe!
