Pickleball is suddenly everywhere. As America’s quickest sport, it has overtaken tennis courts, with reduced nets and repainting lines to suit the increasing number of “picklers.” It is a cross between badminton and tennis. For those of us who have played, it’s really competitive and fun!
Lately, we at Fitzgerald PT have been seeing an influx of patients who suffer from Pickleball injuries. Therefore, we wanted to share with you some frequently asked questions along with some tips on how to prevent injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prevalent pickleball injuries?
An ankle sprain, Achilles tendinitis, hamstrings or quadriceps muscle tension, shoulder discomfort, and wrist fractures are the most frequent pickleball problems. Unfortunately, most of these injuries will keep you out of the game for a while.
What causes my heels to be in pain after playing Pickleball?
Overuse of or repetitive hammering on the rough playing surface is the most common cause of chronic injuries among Pickleball players. However, plantar inflammation and heel injuries are examples of these conditions in the foot.
Why does Pickleball cause arm pain?
Pickleball Elbow is a common concern among many pickleball players (similar to Tennis Elbow). In medical terms, pickleball shoulder is known as Lateral Epicondylitis. Therefore, Excessive usage of the muscle group as a result of poor technique causes discomfort, micro-tearing, inflammation, and instability.
In Pickleball, how do you keep your knees safe?
Stopping short or changing directions fast might result in ligament or meniscal injuries in the knee. However, preventing these injuries can be as simple as wearing appropriate shoes that provide support, but yet have some give in the sole. On the other hand, the most significant piece of pickleball equipment you’ll buy is your court shoes.
How does PT help with Pickleball Injuries?
The most frequent injuries linked with this activity may be avoided with proper fitness. Ankle and heel strains, knee strains, wrist sprains and shoulders strains are all examples of these ailments. With some of these techniques, a physical therapist can help you remain in the game. Here are some tips to prevent injury:
- Squats with just body mass can help you develop and stretch your quadriceps and hamstrings. This also gives you the ability to compress your leg muscles swiftly and consistently. This will help reduce your gravitational pull to handle the Pickleball as it comes at you.
- Large arm circles will stretch up your muscles and prepare them for the considerable movements that occur with striking for a ball.
- Exercises that develop the core, such as core twisting, are also beneficial. This acts as form of protection that helps to safeguard the weight of the body.
- Your knees and hips may be relaxed by laying on your stomach and bringing your knees to your chest.
We at Fitzgerald PT are here to give you the most personalized care so you can safely return to the Pickleball court!
We want to help you feel better soon. Visit our website here to learn more. Or easily book your appointment online now!
