Pickleball Injuries, Rising Along With , the Sport's Popularity.
NBC reports that pickleball's rising popularity has come with a significant uptick in injuries related to the sport.
According to an analysis of a government injury database, bone fractures related to pickleball have increased by 200% over the course of the last 20 years.
Pickleball has become the fastest growing sport in the United States, with the number of players increasing from 4.8 million in 2021 to 8.9 million last year.
The game is played with a perforated plastic ball and wooden paddles on a court similar in size to a badminton court.
NBC reports that the overall rate of injuries is most likely much higher as the new analysis only looks at fractures and not more common issues like sprained ankles.
Other common injuries associated with the popular sport include rotator cuff injuries, Achilles tendon strains or tears, foot fractures and an exacerbation of arthritis.
While pickleball is a great sport, nothing is without risk, Yasmine Ghattas, Study lead author and medical student at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine in Orlando, via NBC.
According to the new study, 92% of the fractures noted in the study were the result of falls.
Researchers suggest that people simply be prepared rather than quitting the sport all together.
Well informed participation in any activity is key, Yasmine Ghattas, Study lead author and medical student at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine in Orlando, via NBC.
Some experts have suggested that many players are unaware of the mechanics of the sport and that proper form that can help with injury prevention.
