Pickleball Injury Solutions: Pickleball injuries are becoming more common as the sport grows in popularity. With nearly 20 million people playing annually in the U.S., it’s no surprise that players are facing issues such as joint pain and muscle strains. However, there’s a simple solution gaining traction among players: KT Tape.
The Numbers Behind the Injuries
Health insurance studies have highlighted the impact of pickleball on player health, with pickleball-related healthcare costs reaching nearly $400 million in 2023.
One study predicted 17,416 emergency room visits in 2022 due to pickleball injuries. However, this figure doesn’t include the more common, milder injuries that don’t require hospital visits, such as pickleball elbow, calf strains, or knee pain.
A recent poll of over 5,000 readers from The Dink Newsletter revealed that knee pain, back issues, and foot discomfort are the most common complaints among pickleball players.
Preventing and Managing Pain: KT Tape
KT Tape, a therapeutic stretchable fitness tape, is quickly becoming a go-to solution for many players. It works by lifting the skin slightly, which helps improve blood flow and relieve soreness in key areas. KT Tape is now a trusted tool for preparing for games, playing through soreness, and recovering more effectively.
Key Areas for KT Tape Application
KT Tape can be applied to various areas of the body to help with common pickleball injuries:
Knees: Taping the patellar tendon can relieve tension and support knee alignment, which is important due to the lunging and quick movements required in the sport.
Feet and Ankles: KT Tape helps with conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tightness by providing support to the arch and ankle.
Back: Taping the lumbar region can ease low back soreness caused by poor posture or over-extension during gameplay.
Shoulders: For players experiencing shoulder pain from overuse, KT Tape can support the deltoid or rotator cuff, allowing players to stay overhead without additional strain.
Legs: KT Tape aids muscle recovery for calf cramps or hamstring issues by improving circulation.
How to Apply KT Tape
Proper application of KT Tape can ensure its effectiveness. The recommended method is the anchor-stretch-anchor technique:
Anchor point: Apply the first two inches of KT Tape to your skin with no stretch.
Stretch: Gently stretch the tape as you apply the next portion.
Final anchor point: Apply the last section of tape with no stretch.
By strategically applying KT Tape to sore or fatigue-prone areas, players can reduce injury risk and maintain peak performance during games.
News in Brief: Pickleball Injury Solutions
Pickleball injuries are increasing, but KT Tape offers relief. The tape helps with common problems such as knee pain, back soreness, and foot discomfort. It supports muscles, ligaments, and joints, allowing players to play through soreness and recover more effectively.
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