Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron Offer Pickleball Safety Tips Amid High Injury Rate
The local experts at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron say that pickleball’s rise in popularity plays a role in the rise in injuries they are seeing, and recent reports from insurance carriers and analysts indicate the same trend on the national level. As the region’s most preferred orthopedic practice in the Blue Water region, Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron 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 practice’s doctors have provided guidelines to stay safe and avoid injury. Patients seeking highly specialized care for pickleball injuries are encouraged to call 810-985-4900 to schedule an appointment at the practice’s office, located at 940 River Centre Drive.
The doctors at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron serve as the exclusive regional doctors for Pickleball Doctors, a national authoritative resource on pickleball injury prevention and treatment from specialty-trained orthopedic and sports medicine doctors. The practice’s pickleball experts are board-certified orthopedic sports medicine surgeon Rajesh B. Makim, M.D., and the area’s only fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon, Todd. P. Murphy, M.D.
“As dedicated sports medicine specialists, we wholeheartedly endorse the thriving pickleball trend in our community," said Dr. Murphy. "Our expert team is committed to addressing and preventing pickleball injuries at all levels, providing comprehensive care to players so they can keep playing the sport they love."
The pickleball injury experts at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron provide 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.
“In addition to using proper gear and techniques, strength training focused on the joints and back has enormous protective power against injuries,” added Dr. Makim. “Injuries can still happen to anyone, and it is important to seek treatment right away.”
To learn more about preventing pickleball injuries and when to seek treatment, please visit www.pickleballdoctors.com/region/port-huron or call Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron at 810-985-4900.