Pickleball Players Recover Quickly: A new study suggests that pickleball players who undergo knee or hip replacement surgery can return to the court sooner than expected, with many resuming play at the same or even better skill level. The findings, presented at the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons annual meeting, show that more than 70% of regular pickleball players resume play post-surgery.
Quick Recovery and Return to the Court
The research, led by Dr. Adam Taylor, an assistant professor of clinical orthopedic surgery at the University of California-Davis, surveyed 1,300 patients who had at least one joint replaced between 2014 and 2023. The study found that:
- 72% of recent pickleball players returned to the sport after surgery, compared to 30% of those who had not played in over two years.
- 44% of pickleball players resumed play within four to six months, a faster return rate than tennis players (36%) and other racquet sport players (39%).
- 77% of returning pickleball players reported playing as well as or better than before their surgery.
Pickleball Players Show Strong Commitment to the Game
The study found no difference in return rates based on skill level. About 73% of beginners, 76% of intermediate players, and 66% of advanced players resumed play after surgery.
The most common reason for not returning to the sport was loss of interest (35%), while only 30% of tennis players cited fear of injury as their reason for quitting.
Experts Recommend a Safe Return to Play
Physical therapists recommend easing back into pickleball after surgery. Ioonna Félix, a physical therapist with the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, said most orthopedic surgeons approve a return to play within three to six months.
“Start by playing doubles. This will be less demanding for you physically and place less stress on the replaced joint. It is best to build the stress through the new joint slowly as your tolerance grows.” – (Félix)
What This Means for Pickleball Players
With pickleball’s 159% increase in participation since 2019, the study provides reassurance to players who may require joint replacement surgery. The findings suggest that with proper rehabilitation and gradual return, players can continue enjoying the sport without significant setbacks.
News in Brief: Pickleball Players Recover Quickly
A new study shows that more than 70% of pickleball players return to the sport after knee or hip replacement surgery, with many playing at the same or better level. 44% resume play within four to six months. Experts recommend easing back into the game, starting with doubles play to reduce joint stress.
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