Pickleball Injury: A love of pickleball nearly landed a local player in serious trouble after skipping a warm-up before a match. On Dec. 2, while hosting a radio show, the player rushed to a game but suffered a painful calf tear during play. Physiotherapist Hannah Noseworthy confirmed the injury and blamed the lack of warm-up. Experts warn that as pickleball grows, injuries like calf and knee strains are increasing, especially when players skip warming up or proper training.
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity and Risks
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in North America. While often joked about as a game for older adults, it attracts players of many ages. Leonard Lye, president of Pickleball Newfoundland and Labrador, said their membership jumped from 18 in 2020 to nearly 1,000 today, with players ranging from 20 to over 80 years old. He noted the sport is becoming popular with younger people too.
Importance of Warming Up
Physiotherapist Hannah Noseworthy explained that injuries like the player’s medial gastrocnemius tear happen when warming up is skipped or shortened. She stressed warming up is “probably one of the most important things when it comes to injury prevention for the sport.” Leonard Lye agreed and recommended proper coaching to learn correct footwork and techniques.
Personal Experience and Recovery
The injured player recalled joking with meteorologist Ashley Brauweiler about being late for the match, only to suffer the injury during play. Despite the pain, the player finished the match but had to use a walking boot and cane for months afterward.
“My shortsightedness in shortening my warm up left me in a walking boot for four months,” the player said. Now, the player returns to pickleball but always warms up and cools down properly.
Injury Trends and Safety Advice
Leonard Lye and Hannah Noseworthy said pickleball injuries, especially to knees, ankles, calves, and shoulders, are becoming more common as the sport grows.
Noseworthy added, “I think sometimes we forget how much we’re moving when we’re doing it.” They believe many injuries can be prevented with proper warm-ups and learning good techniques.
Staying Safe While Having Fun
Pickleball is fun and addictive, but players should know their limits and avoid overdoing it. The player’s advice: prepare with stretches and warm-ups to avoid injury and long breaks on the sidelines.
“Better to be prepared than to be confined to a couch watching all the Star Wars movies in chronological order.” – (pickleball player)
News in Brief: Pickleball Injury
A local pickleball player tore a calf muscle after skipping warm-up before a match in December. Physiotherapist Hannah Noseworthy said warming up is key to preventing injuries. Leonard Lye of Pickleball Newfoundland and Labrador noted the sport’s rapid growth and rising injury rates. Proper coaching and warm-ups can reduce risks.
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