Pickleball enthusiasts at Edmonton’s Pickleball Hub engage in spirited play, including 54-year-old Rob McDonald, who approaches the game with both zeal and caution. McDonald, recalling a past mishap during a tournament, described a severe knee injury that sidelined him for three years. After dedicated rehabilitation, he now plays six times weekly for three-hour sessions, emphasizing the potential for injuries, especially for newcomers adjusting to the sport’s physical demands.
The rising popularity of pickleball in Canada has brought about an increase in related injuries, according to medical professionals like physiotherapist Chad Burden of Summit Physiotherapy in St. Albert. Burden noted a noticeable uptick in pickleball-related injuries over the past few years, attributing many cases to overuse and inadequate conditioning prior to engaging in the sport. Common injuries seen include those affecting the elbow, wrist, lower back, and knee.
Research findings align with Burden’s observations, with a study in Sports Medicine Open highlighting prevalent injuries among pickleball players in the United States, such as knee, thigh, leg, foot, and shoulder issues. Neglecting these injuries could significantly impact individuals’ quality of life, affecting basic functions like walking. Burden advises players to gradually ease into pickleball, maintain flexibility, engage in strength training, and focus on improving balance to prevent injuries.
Additionally, a study published in JAMA Ophthalmology revealed a concerning surge in eye injuries associated with pickleball’s growing popularity. Optometrist Matt Sobolewski of Helio Optometry in Edmonton has witnessed a rise in blunt force injuries and corneal abrasions among players. Sobolewski emphasizes the importance of wearing protective eyewear to prevent such injuries, citing the significant role of safety glasses in shielding players like Rita Salter, who narrowly escaped a serious eye injury during a game.
Salter, a retiree who values pickleball’s social aspect, emphasizes the use of eyewear during play and follows a fitness routine to reduce injury risks. Her proactive approach underlines the importance of protective gear and overall physical conditioning in enjoying the sport safely.