Stretches, warmups, and proper protective gear can keep pickleball players on the court and out of the urgent care, doctors with Sierra Pacific Orthopedics say. (GV Wire Composite/Paul Marshall)

- Pickleball's popularity has come with a rise in injuries.
- Doctors at Sierra Pacific Orthopedic of Fresno offer tips on how to reduce broken bones, tears, and strains.
- Stretching and warming up are vital to reduce injuries.
Share
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
The growing popularity of pickleball nationwide, especially among older generations, has Fresno doctors offering easy-to-follow tips to avoid injuries.
The doctors at Sierra Pacific Orthopedic belong to a nationwide group of medical experts who specialize in treating injuries related to the sport called the Pickleball Doctors.
The growth in popularity has come with a rise in injuries.
“We’re excited to see the local community embrace pickleball and all the health and social benefits that come with it,” said Fresno sports medicine specialist Zachary Hill in a news release. “Our team is committed to helping you stay active and safe on the court, from expert care to rehabilitation plans and injury prevention.”
Related Story: Does American Tennis Have a Pickleball Problem?
Warmups Key to Protecting Muscles. Don’t Forget to Wrap Up, Too
Doctors at Sierra Pacific see common injuries among players: broken bones, strains, and tears.
The easiest solution? Stretching and warming up, doctors say. Pickleball elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, occurs after overuse. Pain and swelling at the tendons can build from repetitive movements. Warming up muscles before matches and taking breaks can help players recover from strains.
Repetitive stress at the ankle can cause inflammation in the Achilles tendon, called Achilles tendinitis. Warming up and easing into intensity can prevent ankle injuries.
The Pickleball Doctors recommend five to 10 minutes of dynamic, sport-specific warmups to get ready for quick starts, stops, and lateral movement.
Players also need to be aware of falls.
Supportive footwear and mindful footing can prevent knee injuries such as meniscus or ACL tears. Supportive wraps and proper stroke techniques can prevent wrist injuries.
Proper footwear and a clear court can prevent hip fractures caused by falls. Look for shoes with good traction, stability, and comfort, the Pickleball Doctors say.
Outside pickleball, players should aim for 150 minutes per week of exercise to reduce fatigue. The Pickleball Doctors say good options include walking, running, swimming, or biking.
Sierra Pacific Docs Treat Fresno’s College Athletes
Doctors at Sierra Pacific serve as official orthopedists for the Fresno State Bulldogs, Fresno City College Rams, and Fresno Pacific University Sunbirds. They specialize in bone, joint, and muscle care. They specialize in physical medicine, rehabilitation, sports medicine, and total joint replacement.
RELATED TOPICS:
Trump Says He Will Order Voter ID Requirement for Every Vote
20 hours ago
Greta Thunberg Joins Flotilla Heading for Gaza With Aid
20 hours ago
Chicago Mayor Says Police Will Not Aid Federal Troops or Agents
20 hours ago
Post-War Gaza Plan Sees Relocation of Population, ‘Digital Token’ for Palestinian Land: Washington Post
20 hours ago
Labor Day Quiz: Do You Know What a Knocker-Upper Is?
20 hours ago
Judge Blocks Pillar of Trump’s Mass Deportation Campaign
2 days ago
Visalia Driver Arrested for DUI After Multiple Crashes and Pedestrian Injured
2 days ago
Fresno County Garnet Fire Grows to 18,748 Acres in Sierra National Forest
19 hours ago
Categories

Fresno County Garnet Fire Grows to 18,748 Acres in Sierra National Forest

Israel Pounds Gaza City Suburbs, Netanyahu to Convene Security Cabinet

Trump Says He Will Order Voter ID Requirement for Every Vote

Greta Thunberg Joins Flotilla Heading for Gaza With Aid

Chicago Mayor Says Police Will Not Aid Federal Troops or Agents

Post-War Gaza Plan Sees Relocation of Population, ‘Digital Token’ for Palestinian Land: Washington Post
