Pickleball Injury Risks and Pain: A new study from Saint Louis University has revealed that nearly one in three pickleball players continue competing despite ongoing pain. Researchers analyzed 1,758 players ages 18 to 102 from across the United States to better understand injury trends beyond hospital records.
Injuries and Discomfort Widespread
The study, led by Oluwatoyosi Owoeye and colleagues, found that 68.5% of players reported injuries or discomfort in the past year. Of these, 40.8% had time-loss injuries that stopped them from playing for at least a day, while 51.2% reported non-time-loss issues like soreness or strains.
“35.9% of players said they played despite ongoing pain or discomfort,” the study noted. Researchers warned that ignoring such pain could make injuries worse.
Knees and Shoulders Most Affected
The survey revealed the most common injury areas:
Knees – 29%
Lower leg/foot – 27%
Shoulders – 22%
Back – 20%
Elbow – 18%
Overuse injuries accounted for 35% of cases, showing that repetition, not sudden accidents, causes most problems. Quick lunges, pivots, and overhead swings put constant stress on joints and muscles.
Who Is Most at Risk?
The study found that middle-aged players (33–62 years) had the highest injury rate, at around 77%. Men were also 33% more likely to get injured than women.
Frequency and experience also shaped the risk:
Playing 3+ times a week raised injury chances by 45%.
Players with less than five years of experience were 50% more likely to report injuries compared to longtime players.
A Wider Look at Pickleball’s Toll
This study is the largest of its kind, covering nearly 1,800 players nationwide. Unlike earlier research based on emergency room visits, it captured everyday aches and discomforts. The findings offer a more complete picture of the physical strain behind the sport’s fast growth.
Why It Matters
Pickleball is booming across the United States, but its popularity comes with risks. Many players are pushing through pain instead of resting, which could lead to longer recovery times or permanent injuries. Experts say smarter training and recovery strategies will be needed as more people take up the game.
News in Brief: Pickleball Injury Risks and Pain
A study by Saint Louis University surveyed 1,758 pickleball players and found that nearly 70% had injuries or discomfort in the past year. About 36% admitted they kept playing through pain. Knees and shoulders were the most affected areas, with middle-aged, frequent, and newer players most at risk.
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