Pickleball has been growing rapidly in popularity, becoming a favorite pursuit for players of all ages. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and ping–pong makes it accessible and exciting for people seeking a fun and social way to stay active. The sport's ease of play and low entry barriers have also contributed to its rise in popularity, especially among older adults looking for an enjoyable and less strenuous alternative to traditional sports.

However, as participation increases, so does the number of pickleball–related injuries. While much attention is given to lower–body injuries like sprains or strains, injuries to the hands and wrists are also quite common, yet often overlooked. Understanding these risks and learning how to protect yourself can help you enjoy pickleball without pain or injury.

The Rise of Pickleball–Related Fractures

According to an extensive study that analyzed emergency department visits, there has been a dramatic increase in pickleball–related fractures over the past two decades. From 2002 to 2022, the number of fractures from the sport increased by 90–fold, which equates to about 5,400 fractures occurring annually in recent years. This rapid rise reflects not only the sport's growing popularity, but also its unique physical demands.

The study revealed that players over the age of 60 accounted for 87% of all reported fractures, with women comprising 69% of these cases. Most fractures occurred in the upper extremities, including the upper arm bone (humerus) and the two wrist bones (radius and ulna), which made up 66% of all injuries. Falls were identified as the primary cause, accounting for over 92% of all fractures. But physical therapy can play a critical role in preventing these injuries through strength training, balance improvement, and guidance on proper techniques.

Types of Fractures Observed

The study also shed light on the specific types of fractures most commonly associated with pickleball:

1. Radius Fractures

Fractures of the radius–the wrist bone on the thumb side of the forearm–were the most frequently reported, representing 30% of all upper extremity injuries. These typically result from players using their hands to break a fall, making them especially common among older female players.

2. Humerus and Ulna Fractures

Fractures of the humerus (8%) and ulna (3%) were also common. These injuries often occurred due to falls or missteps during play, further emphasizing the risk of hitting the ground hard.

3. Lower Extremity and Trunk Fractures

Although less common, fractures of the pelvis, ribs, and lower extremities were also noted. These injuries were more likely to require hospitalization, with men and older players being at higher risk.

Seasonal and Demographic Trends

Interestingly, fractures were more likely to occur during the winter months, with a significant spike in cases reported from December to February. Thursdays and Fridays were the most common days for emergency visits, suggesting that higher participation rates on these days may contribute to the trend. The demographic breakdown also showed that while women were more prone to fractures overall, men faced higher odds of severe injuries requiring hospital admission. This disparity may be linked to differences in bone density and the types of fractures sustained.

Preventing Pickleball–Related Fractures

Although fractures can be severe, it's possible to reduce the risk for injury through a physical therapy–based prevention program. Our physical therapists can design a personalized prevention program for any pickleball player, including high–risk groups like older adults. These types of programs typically include the following interventions:

Strength and Balance Training

Improving strength and balance can help players stabilize themselves and recover from missteps, reducing the likelihood of falls.

Protective Gear

Wrist guards and other protective equipment may be recommended to mitigate the impact of falls and reduce the severity of injuries.

Proper Warm–Up and Technique

Engaging in warm–up exercises and focusing on proper footwork and paddle technique can prevent many common accidents on the court. Our physical therapists can teach these essential skills to help improve your overall performance safely.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

For players who do sustain a fracture, recovery often involves physical therapy to restore strength, mobility, and function. Treatment plans may include range–of–motion exercises, pain management techniques, and guidance on safely returning to play. A physical therapist can therefore play a crucial role in ensuring a full and efficient recovery, reducing the risk of long–term complications or re–injury.

The rapid growth of pickleball has brought with it a corresponding increase in injuries, particularly fractures. But by understanding the associated risks, taking preventive measures, and incorporating physical therapy into your routine, you can ensure that you're staying safe while enjoying the game.

Contact Us Today For More Information

If you've recently experienced a pickleball–related injury or you want to take the initiative to reduce your risk, call our clinic today to learn more or to schedule an appointment with one of our expert physical therapists. We're here to help you stay active and healthy.

For more information about the featured study on pickleball–related fractures, click here for the full text.