Pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport, has seen an increase in participation with an estimated 22.3 million players in 2024 – a 150% jump from previous years. However, this surge has been accompanied by a significant rise in related injuries, particularly among older adults.

According to a recent study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine in 2024, approximately 90% of pickleball-related injuries occur in individuals over the age of 50 with common injuries including sprains, strains and fractures. Notably, fractures linked to pickleball have increased 90-fold from 2002 to 2022, with the majority occurring in players aged 60 to 69.

“Pickleball is a fantastic way to stay active, especially for older adults, but like any physical activity, it comes with risks — especially if players aren’t properly conditioned or warmed up,” said Dr. Vahan Cepkinian, MD, chief of surgery at Dignity Health – Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health Center. “We’re seeing more cases of knee injuries, shoulder strains, and even hip fractures in patients who jumped into the sport too quickly.”

To help players stay safe on the court, Dr. Cepkinian recommends the following injury prevention tips:

• Warm Up First: Gentle stretching and five–10 minutes of light cardio can prepare muscles and joints.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Court shoes with good lateral support help prevent ankle injuries.
• Build Strength and Balance: Strength training and balance exercises reduce the risk of falls and overuse injuries.
• Take Breaks: Rest between games and stay hydrated to maintain performance and prevent fatigue-related injuries.
• Listen to Your Body: Don’t ignore pain. Early attention to discomfort can prevent more serious issues.

Dignity Health’s orthopedic team is equipped to provide comprehensive care for pickleball-related injuries, offering services ranging from advanced imaging and diagnostics to minimally invasive surgical procedures and personalized rehabilitation programs.

For more information about Dignity Health’s orthopedic services or to schedule an appointment, visit dignityhealth.org/glendale/ortho.