Play Hard, Hurt Less: A Senior’s Guide to Pickleball Injury Prevention
Pickleball Injuries: A Growing Concern for Seniors
Pickleball is rapidly becoming the sport of choice for many, with over 3.3 million players in the U.S. alone. Its popularity is especially pronounced among those aged 55 and older, who make up 75% of regular participants. However, with its rise in popularity comes a corresponding increase in pickleball injuries, particularly among seniors.
Common Pickleball Injuries Among Seniors
Foot and Ankle Injuries:
Blisters and Torn Ligaments: Often caused by rapid acceleration and deceleration.
Achilles Tendon Ruptures: These are the most severe, requiring surgical intervention for full recovery.
Leg Injuries:
Shin Splints and Stress Fractures: Early diagnosis and therapy are key.
Gastrocnemius Muscle Tears: Regular stretching and massage help in recovery.
Knee Injuries:
Meniscus Tears: Especially common among players aged 60-80. Treatment includes knee injections and sometimes surgery.
Back Injuries:
Muscle Strains and Disc Damage: Strengthening the abdominal and paraspinal muscles can help prevent these injuries.
Shoulder and Elbow Injuries:
Tendonitis and Rotator Cuff Injuries: Early treatment with ice, stretching, and strengthening exercises is crucial.
Fractures:
Ankle and Wrist Fractures: Common from low-energy falls. Strength training and balance exercises can help prevent these.
Preventing Pickleball Injuries
Proper Warm-Up: Always start with a gentle warm-up to prepare your body for the physical demands of pickleball.
Stretching: Focus on dynamic stretching to improve flexibility and prevent strains.
Strengthening Exercises: Incorporate exercises that target the muscles used in pickleball, such as the legs, core, and upper body.
Balance Training: Practice on balance boards and uneven surfaces to improve proprioception and reduce the risk of falls.
Mental Preparedness: Stay focused and present during the game to avoid mental errors that can lead to injuries.
Nonsurgical Treatment and Prevention at Active Spine and Joint Institute
At Active Spine and Joint Institute, we specialize in a variety of non-surgical treatments designed to both prevent and treat common pickleball injuries. Our services include:
Chiropractic Care: Helps with spinal alignment and reduces back pain.
Occupational Therapy: Focuses on improving your strength, flexibility, and coordination.
Cold Laser Therapy: Reduces inflammation and accelerates healing.
Spinal and Knee Decompression: Alleviates pressure on the spine and joints, promoting pain relief.
Pulsewave Therapy: Stimulates tissue repair and reduces pain.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy: Enhances the body's natural healing process with growth factors.
These treatments are not only effective in managing and preventing injuries but also offer a non-invasive alternative to surgery. By opting for these therapies, you can avoid the risks and lengthy recovery times associated with surgical procedures.
Don’t get yourself in a pickle.
Pickleball is thriving in various locations across New Jersey, including Marmora, Northfield, Wildwood, Cape May, and Mount Laurel. It’s a great way to stay active and we love the health benefits it has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting, make sure to train properly and stay injury-free to enjoy this exciting sport for years to come.
At Active Spine and Joint Institute, we are dedicated to helping you stay active and healthy. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you prevent and treat pickleball injuries.
