The Bone & Joint Center Addresses Pickleball Injury Rise, Provide Safety Tips

The local experts at The Bone & Joint Center, a leading orthopedic practice in the region, have observed a significant uptick in injuries correlating with the surging popularity of pickleball. This trend mirrors recent findings from insurance carriers and analysts, indicating a parallel increase in pickleball-related injuries on a national scale. In response to the growing concern, the practice's experts have formulated comprehensive guidelines aimed at promoting safety and injury prevention among pickleball enthusiasts. Patients seeking highly specialized care for pickleball injuries are encouraged to call 518-489-2666 to schedule an appointment.

The doctors at The Bone & Joint Center serve as the exclusive regional doctors for Pickleball Doctors, a national authoritative resource on pickleball injury prevention and treatment from specialty-trained orthopedic and sports medicine doctors. The practice's team of pickleball experts is made up of Drs. Richard Alfred, Maxwell Alley, Brady Bowen, Shankar Das, Michael Flaherty, Andrew Gerdeman, Alexander Harbin, Hamish Kerr, Daniel Phelan, James Schneider, Todd Shatynski and Joseph Zimmerman.

“As committed sports medicine specialists, we wholeheartedly endorse the thriving pickleball trend in our community," said fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon Dr. Zimmerman. “We're focused on addressing and preventing pickleball injuries at every level, providing comprehensive care to enable players to pursue their passion for the sport.”

The pickleball injury experts at The Bone & Joint Center provide a list of the most common injuries affecting pickleball players and ways to avoid them:

• Pickleball elbow: Pickleball elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, can occur due to overuse. Prevent an elbow injury by warming up before playing and taking breaks to allow your arm to recover.
• Knee injuries: Knee injuries, like ligament or meniscus tears, can happen from sudden movements or falls. Protect your knees by wearing supportive footwear and being mindful of your footing.
• Wrist injuries: Wrist injuries from falls or improper technique are common in pickleball. Prevent injury by using supportive braces or wraps and practicing proper stroke techniques.
• Hip fractures: Hip fractures can result from falls on the court. Prevent fractures by wearing appropriate footwear and maintaining a clear court free of hazards.
• Achilles tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis, or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, can be caused by repetitive stress. Prevent ankle injuries by warming up properly and gradually increasing training intensity.

“Beyond employing appropriate gear and techniques, prioritizing joint and back-focused strength training significantly reduces the risk for potential injuries,” added Dr. Zimmerman. “While injuries remain a possibility for anyone, prompt treatment is crucial for effective recovery.”

To learn more or to schedule an appointment at The Bone & Joint Center, call 518-489-2666.