OrthoArizona Addressing High Pickleball Injury Rate, Offering Safety Tips

The local experts at OrthoArizona indicate that pickleball’s rising popularity plays a role in the spike in injuries they are seeing. As the region’s most preferred orthopedic practice, OrthoArizona provides the highest level of preventive, nonsurgical and surgical care for athletic injuries. To help pickleball players get the most out of their time on the court, the doctors at OrthoArizona have provided guidelines to help them stay safe and avoid injury. For expert injury care, patients can schedule an appointment by calling 602-648-5444. Patients can walk in and be seen through the InstantOrtho clinic at the practice’s Deer Valley office at 2902 W. Agua Fria Freeway, Suite 1090, in Scottsdale at 8405 N. Pima Center Parkway, Suite 204., and in Gilbert at 1675 E. Melrose St.

“Our experienced sports medicine specialists at OrthoArizona fully support the growing pickleball trend in our community, recognizing it as a healthy and engaging activity,” said OrthoArizona CEO Joe Clark. “While every sport carries some risk, pickleball is no different. Our expert team is dedicated to helping players of all levels prevent and treat injuries, ensuring you stay active and safe on the court.”

The region’s pickleball injury experts at OrthoArizona describe the most common conditions affecting pickleball players and ways to avoid them:

• Pickleball elbow (lateral epicondylitis): This condition can develop from repetitive arm movements. To reduce your risk, always warm up before playing and take regular breaks to allow your arm to rest.
• Knee injuries: Sudden pivots or falls can lead to ligament or meniscus damage. Protect your knees by wearing supportive shoes and being aware of your movements on the court.
• Wrist injuries: Falls or improper technique can cause wrist injuries. To avoid these, consider wearing supportive braces or wraps, and focus on maintaining correct stroke mechanics.
• Hip fractures: A fall on the court can result in a hip fracture. Lower your risk by wearing the right footwear and ensuring the playing area is clear of obstacles.
• Achilles tendinitis: Repeated strain can cause inflammation of the Achilles tendon. To prevent this, warm up thoroughly and increase your training intensity gradually.

For immediate care, OrthoArizona offers walk-in care through the InstantOrtho clinics available throughout the region. InstantOrtho is available in Deer Valley Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; in Scottsdale Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon; and in Gilbert Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon.

“We are proud to offer our communities high-quality orthopedic care as soon as possible, from pickleball pros to weekend players,” said Clark. “InstantOrtho helps us deliver that exceptional access, and our team is dedicated to keeping all players on the court.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment with OrthoArizona, please call 602-648-5444 or see them at one of their InstantOrtho clinics without an appointment.