Pickleball is an increasingly popular sport that blends together elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. You play as either singles or doubles with a small court size. Making it easier for people of all ages to take part in the game.
The round net that you use in pickleball also makes the game more forgiving on players with less experience while still providing competitive play between players with more experience.
The popularity of pickleball has grown astronomically over the past decade due to its accessibility and ease of play. Pickleball courts are now popping up in parks across the country, and special tournaments are happening all over. With its growing fan base, pickleball is quickly becoming one of the most popular sports in America.
Pickleball can be a challenge to play through an injury or disability. The small court size and fast-paced nature of the game make it difficult for players to adjust their strategy when they are not in full health.
This can lead to further injuries. Many professional pickleball athletes focus on maintaining their physical health and strength in order to compete at their best performance level. It is important to remember that while injuries may be difficult to work around, playing through an injury doesn’t mean giving up your passion for the game!
With proper care and preparation, it is still possible to enjoy a good game of pickleball despite any physical limitations.
In this blog, we will discuss the importance of warming up and playing with proper technique and equipment, as well as ways to cool down after a game to make sure that you stay fit for the next time you take the court.
5 Tips To Help Prevent Injury When Playing Pickleball
Injury prevention is an important part of playing pickleball safely. Taking proper precautions before and during a match can help prevent the risk of injury, including warm-up exercises, wearing proper clothing and protective equipment, and avoiding overuse or repetitive activity.
If you are feeling any discomfort during a game, it is best to stop playing and seek medical advice as soon as possible. Rest and proper treatment are necessary for a full recovery so you can get back to enjoying the game of pickleball safely.
5 Tips For Injury Prevention
1. Warm-up: Make sure to warm up properly before playing pickleball by doing light stretching and jogging in place for a few minutes. This will help prevent any muscle strains or pulls while playing.
2. Proper equipment: Wear comfortable clothing that won’t restrict movement, and use a good quality paddle and ball that are made specifically for pickleball. Wearing the right gear can help you move freely without risking an injury.
3. Proper form: Be aware of your body position when hitting the ball, as maintaining proper form helps you avoid overuse injuries from repetitive motions such as twisting too much in one direction or hitting the ball too hard. Pay close attention to your posture and make sure you are evenly distributing the weight on both feet.
4. Footwork: Focus on your footwork when playing pickleball, as it is important to stay in control and be able to stop quickly without getting injured. Work on your agility, balance, and coordination with various drills that help you improve your footwork skills.
5. Cool down period: Don’t forget to cool down after a game of pickleball by stretching or doing some light exercises such as walking for a few minutes. This can help relax and loosen tight muscles which will allow you to recover faster from any fatigue or soreness during the game. Taking care of yourself post-game helps reduce the risk of injury in the long run.
Have A Pickleball Injury? We Can Help You…
Pickleball injury experts can help significantly when it comes to treating an existing injury. These health professionals typically have a good understanding of the sport and how different injuries might occur.
Utilizing their incomparable expertise, they can develop an effective treatment plan that helps people recover as quickly as possible so they can get back on the court. This often includes providing specific exercises which will help prevent future injuries and teach proper form to reduce the likelihood of sustaining damage in the future.
At Bodyworx we know that it is important for pickleball players who are already injured or taking precautionary measures to stay safe on the court. Undergoing sessions with us and our knowledgeable professionals make sure that muscles are kept strong and flexible. We help you understand the issues that are causing you pain. That way we can get you treatment that gets you back on the court performing at your best.
Do You Have A Pickleball Injury Keeping You on the Sidelines?
We offer a free Pickleball Injury Analysis. This will allow you to come into the clinic, meet the team, and decide if we are the right fit for you. Our team of experts can help you assess the problem, start the conversation on how to best treat the injury, and get you back on the court this summer.
To claim your Painfree Injury Analysis with one of our team of pickleball injury experts, just click here.
We love to keep people in Wichita, Andover, Derby, and Maize (and we saw clients from 9 different states last year) mobile, active, and off pain pills. Let our expertise go to work for you to help you return to the activities you love.
Don’t forget, you can schedule a no-obligation (and free!) Free Phone Call or visit us at our Wichita clinic as part of your free Pickleball Injury Analysis. Or just give us a call at 316.558.8808.
Until next time,
Cody Barnett PT
Other Free Resources to Help Reduce the Chance of Injury Playing Pickleball
Read Our Blog – Choosing the Right Shoes for Pickleball to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis
More About Pickleball – Places to Play Pickleball in Wichita KS and How to Get Started Playing Pickleball for the First Time
Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel – Bodyworx Physical Therapy YouTube Channel
Follow Us On Social Media – Bodyworx Physical Therapy Facebook
