Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center Offers Insight on Pickleball Safety

The experienced professionals at Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center have noticed an increase in injuries associated with the rising trend of pickleball. Specializing in delivering top-notch, patient-centered care for sports-related injuries, the practice's doctors have shared tips to prevent injuries and help pickleball players of all levels maximize their time and enjoyment on the court. Patients seeking specialty-trained experts in pickleball injury care are encouraged to call 704-865-0077 to schedule an appointment at the practice’s office, located at 2345 Court Drive in Gastonia.

The doctors at Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center serve as the exclusive regional doctors for Pickleball Doctors, a national authoritative resource on pickleball injury prevention and treatment from specialty-trained orthopaedic and sports medicine doctors. The practice’s team of pickleball experts is made up of Dr. Erik Johnson, Dr. Tejas Parikh, Dr. Christopher Prato, Dr. H. Clayton Thomason and Dr. Jason Zlotnicki.

“As dedicated experts in sports medicine, we are happy to see pickleball growing and keeping people active in our community,” said fellowship-trained sports medicine specialist Dr. Johnson. “Our team is committed to treating and preventing pickleball injuries. We offer a full scope of treatment options to help ensure our patients can stay on the court.”

The pickleball injury experts at Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center offer a list of the most common injuries affecting pickleball players and ways to avoid them:

• Pickleball elbow: Pickleball elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, can occur due to overuse. Prevent an elbow injury by warming up before playing and taking breaks to allow your arm to recover.
• Knee injuries: Knee injuries, like ligament or meniscus tears, can happen from sudden movements or falls. Protect your knees by wearing supportive footwear and being mindful of your footing.
• Wrist injuries: Wrist injuries from falls or improper technique are common in pickleball. Prevent injury by using supportive braces or wraps and practicing proper stroke techniques.
• Hip fractures: Hip fractures can result from falls on the court. Prevent fractures by wearing appropriate footwear and maintaining a clear court free of hazards.
• Achilles tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis, or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, can be caused by repetitive stress. Prevent ankle injuries by warming up properly and gradually increasing training intensity.

“While taking preventive measures is crucial, injuries can still occur,” added Dr. Johnson. “So getting the right treatment right away is essential to staying in the game.”

To learn more about preventing pickleball injuries and when to seek treatment, please visit www.pickleballdoctors.com/region/gastonia or call Carolina Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center at 704-865-0077.