Here, learn nine pickleball injury prevention strategies to keep in mind to protect your players.
Pickleball-related injuries have been on the rise, with strains, sprains and fractures being among the most common issues. Players over 50 tend to be more susceptible, but injuries can affect anyone regardless of age. Key areas of concern include the shoulder, elbow — particularly from overuse, known as “pickleball elbow” — knees, lower back, and injuries from impacts such as falls.
Key Pickleball Injury Prevention Strategies:
- Warm-Up and Stretching: According to the Mayo Clinic, encouraging players to properly warm up and stretch before games can significantly reduce the risk of injuries. This should include a focus on the lower extremities, back, neck and upper extremities. Proper warm-up routines can prevent common issues like Achilles tendon injuries.
- Use Proper Equipment: Make sure players use appropriate paddles with a comfortable grip to reduce stress on the wrist and prevent overuse injuries. Footwear specifically designed for pickleball or tennis can offer better support and decrease the risk of ankle and Achilles injuries.
- Promote Proper Technique and Footwork: Incorrect playing techniques and poor footwork are common causes of injuries. Offer or suggest lessons to improve technique and footwork, which can help prevent many common injuries.
- Understand and Respect Physical Limitations: Players, especially those who are older or less active, should be encouraged to recognize and respect their physical limitations to avoid overuse and traumatic injuries. This may include using support braces for knees, wrists, or ankles if needed.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Maintaining good hydration and nutrition is crucial for preventing overuse injuries. Encourage players to stay hydrated and provide guidelines for optimal nutrition to support their physical activity.
- Recovery and Rest: Stress the importance of adequate rest and recovery after playing. This includes cool-down exercises, stretching and rest periods to allow the body to recover and prevent muscle soreness and fatigue.
- Education on Injury Signs and First Aid: Provide information on the signs of common pickleball injuries and basic first aid measures, such as the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for initial treatment of sprains and strains.
- Facility Safety: Ensure the playing environment is safe and well-maintained. This includes keeping the court surface clean and free of hazards that could cause falls or injuries.
- Protective Gear: Encourage the use of protective eyewear and other relevant safety gear to prevent acute injuries from impacts.
By implementing these strategies, pickleball business owners can create a safer environment for their players, reducing the likelihood of injuries and enhancing the overall playing experience. Education on pickleball injury prevention strategies should be a key component of any pickleball program, emphasizing the importance of preparation, technique and recovery.
Lastly, it’s important as a pickleball business operator to consider liability protection. Ensure your business has the proper waivers and risk management protocols in place to mitigate risk. Consult with your risk management partner on best practices.
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With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
