FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Pickleball has grown in popularity across the country among all ages. Despite pickleball being seen as a family sport, when researchers looked into injuries related to the sport, they found something not as favorable.
Public health researchers at the University of Arkansas (U of A) conducted a study to "identify risk factors for injury, including how injuries occurred, and to identify effective countermeasures."
The research found that 87% of pickleball-related injuries in emergency rooms were patients older than 50. Because of this, U of A says those over 50 "might want to consult a doctor before taking up pickleball."
Results
U of A states most of the hospital admissions were for due to cardiac arrest while the others were for injuries.
Common injuries
- Fractures 30%
- Sprains 17%
- Internal organ injury 7.2%
Ages
- Injuries to players under age 26 were likely due to "misuse of sport equipment."
- Injuries to players ages 26-50 were likely related to "activity overuse."
- Players over age of 50, "demonstrated a greater percentage of cardiac arrest or symptoms leading to more severe cardiovascular conditions."
Because pickleball requires "short bursts of intense movement," the study found that these movements can cause "cardiac events" to those who suffer from heart disease. The study concluded that while pickleball is "marketed as a family friendly game," many people could actually be putting themselves at risk.
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