Mayo Clinic Minute writes that despite pickleball’s reputation as a slower, lower-impact sport, injuries can still occur. Mayo Clinic hand and wrist surgeon Dr. Sanj Kakar emphasizes the importance of following four key principles to prevent injuries:
- Proper Stretching: Stretching from the feet up, including the lower extremities, back, neck, and upper extremities, is crucial to avoid injuries, particularly Achilles tendon injuries.
- Purposeful Practice: Avoid repetitive practice that can lead to chronic overuse injuries.
- Proper Equipment: Using the right equipment, such as an appropriate paddle and a suitable grip, can help reduce stress on the hands and wrists.
- Proper Mechanics: Using correct body mechanics is essential, as the motion in pickleball can be more intense than in tennis due to the lower bounce of the ball.
Following these guidelines can help players enjoy pickleball safely and reduce the risk of injury.
