Briefs

As Pickleball Popularity Surges, So Do Injuries: Dignity Health Offers Expert Care and Prevention Tips

 

LONG BEACH— Pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport, has seen a remarkable increase in participation, with an estimated 22.3 million players in 2024—a 150% jump from previous years. However, this surge has been accompanied by a significant rise in related injuries, particularly among older adults. According to a recent study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine in 2024, approximately 90% of pickleball-related injuries occur in individuals over the age of 50, with common injuries including sprains, strains, and fractures. Notably, fractures linked to pickleball have increased 90-fold from 2002 to 2022, with the majority occurring in players aged 60 to 69.

“Pickleball is a fantastic way to stay active, especially for older adults, but like any physical activity, it comes with risks—especially if players aren’t properly conditioned or warmed up,” said Dr. Edward Green, Sports Orthopedic Specialist at Dignity Health St Mary Medical Center “We’re seeing more cases of knee injuries, shoulder strains, and even hip fractures in patients who jumped into the sport too quickly.”

To help players stay safe on the court, Dr. Green recommends the following injury prevention tips:

  • Warm Up First: Gentle stretching and 5–10 minutes of light cardio can prepare muscles and joints.
  • Wear Proper Footwear: Court shoes with good lateral support help prevent ankle injuries.
  • Build Strength and Balance: Strength training and balance exercises reduce the risk of falls and overuse injuries.
  • Take Breaks: Rest between games and stay hydrated to maintain performance and prevent fatigue-related injuries.
  • Listen to Your Body: Don’t ignore pain. Early attention to discomfort can prevent more serious issues.

Dignity Health’s orthopedic team is equipped to provide comprehensive care for pickleball-related injuries, offering services ranging from advanced imaging and diagnostics to minimally invasive surgical procedures and personalized rehabilitation programs.

Details: dignityhealth.org/stmarymedical

Reporters Desk

Recent Posts

County to Protect Medi-Cal and CalFresh Access for 1.7 Million Residents Amid New Federal Work Requirements

The motion also calls for the expansion of workfare and volunteer opportunities across county departments…

11 hours ago

Governors Briefs: CalRx® Insulin, $11 a Pen, Will Soon be Available and Appointment Announced

This launch marks a significant step in the state's ongoing effort to lower prescription drug…

12 hours ago

Purdue Student Paper Shows Solidarity With Rival

  After the Indiana University Media School fired its director of student media and banned…

12 hours ago

POLA Lead Attorney Steve Otera Named Corporate Counsel of the Year by LA Business Journal

  LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Business Journal has given a top legal honor…

12 hours ago

Ports Briefs: POLB Cargo Slows as Clean Truck Study and Air Quality Report Highlight Progress

The Final 2024 Class 8 Drayage Truck Feasibility Assessment Report focuses on battery electric and…

15 hours ago

Public Health Investigating Possible Local Spread of Clade I Mpox; Third Case Confirmed in Los Angeles County

So far in 2025, Public Health has reported 118 cases of clade II mpox.

2 days ago