Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. As the popularity of pickleball continues to rise, it’s important for those looking to get into the sport to understand the possible injury risks. Whether you're an avid player or just looking to have some fun on the court, avoiding injuries should be your top priority when it comes to any sport.
Common injuries
Sports injuries can happen to anyone at any time. Whether it's pickleball, volleyball or marathon running, injuries affect the most seasoned athletes and the average person. Injuries to beware of include:
- Ankle and knee sprains: Observed in sports that involve sudden directional changes
- Wrist sprains and fractures: Common among players who fall during practice or a game
- Hamstring strains: Prevalent among runners and athletes
- Back injuries: Associated with weightlifting and other exercises
Injury prevention
Preventing sports injuries helps you continue to live an active lifestyle. One of the primary preventive measures is to establish a proper warm-up and cool-down routine. Before playing a game of pickleball (or any sport), take 5-10 minutes to lightly jog and stretch. This helps to loosen your muscles and joints. A similar cool-down routine will help prevent soreness and tightness.
Another way to avoid injury when exercising or playing a sport is to progress slowly. Whether you’re getting back into physical activity, attempting a new sport like pickleball or engaging in regular exercise, it’s important to gradually increase your intensity to avoid injury.
Lastly, prioritizing your wellbeing can help you stay injury-free on the court. This includes eating a balanced diet that’s rich in lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, vegetables and fruit, and getting enough sleep each night to give your body time to recover between training sessions.
Dealing with injuries
Sports injuries are an unfortunate but often inevitable part of an active lifestyle. For minor injuries, wrap the injured area with a brace to provide support. Ice the area to reduce swelling and take over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, you should seek medical attention. In the case of a serious injury, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Ignoring injuries can lead to severe complications.
Sports injuries can be frustrating but it’s important to allow your body to heal properly before returning to your favorite sport or activity. Rushing recovery can lead to re-injury, which can hinder your performance and participation in sports. Instead, prioritize your long-term well-being by ensuring you're back at 100% before returning to the game or activity.
At NorthShore - Endeavor Health, we adopt a personalized strategy when it comes to managing and preventing sports injuries. From professionals and college athletes to high school students, club enthusiasts and beginners, we cater to a diverse range of individuals. Our distinctive and comprehensive program is dedicated to ensuring that all athletes can maintain their active lifestyles. To learn more, visit us online or call (847) 570-4792.
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