Pickleball, a sport that some say is a combination of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong, has grown in popularity between 2019 and 2021 and has become the fastest growing sport in the U.S. Like with any sport, it comes with certain risks, including some some of the most common pickleball injuries, those involving your feet.
Below, our experienced and proven DFW sports medicine podiatrist explains the common types of pickleball foot injuries and give tips on how to avoid them, so you can continue to play pain and injury free.
Finding Your Feet: Common Pickleball Injuries
Many people who play pickleball find it to be easier and less intense than tennis; however, “picklers”—a name given to those who love the game—still face the most common pickleball injuries, especially seniors and retirees who play several hours a day.
Picklers Face a Variety of Injuries
- Plantar fasciitis. With this condition, the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed. You can also develop plantar fasciitis from wearing the wrong type of shoes.
- Achilles tendinitis. Caused by overuse, Achilles tendinitis occurs when the tendon in the back of the ankle connecting the calf to the heel becomes strained. Stop-and-go movements during pickleball can contribute to this condition. If you hear a popping sound and have trouble standing on your foot, you may have ruptured your Achilles tendon and need immediate medical attention.
- Ankle sprains. An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments on the side of the ankle. You can sprain your ankle if you land improperly on your foot or take a step that causes you to lose your balance and twist your ankle.
Tips For Avoiding Pickleball Foot Injuries
- Warm up by stretching before playing
- Wear the proper type of shoes for the sport
- If your ankle is susceptible to sprains, consider an ankle support or brace
- Use custom orthotics inside your shoes to provide additional support
- Rest if you experience pain
If you are injured or have foot pain, consult with a sports medicine podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist will diagnose the cause of the foot pain and recommend treatment options based on your individual needs.
Contact Our DFW Sports Medicine Podiatrist for Treatment Today!
If you injured your foot while playing pickleball or any other sport, contact Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists for an evaluation. Our DFW sports medicine podiatrist can create a treatment plan based on your specific needs and get you back in the game as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment, fill out our contact form, or call our office at 817-481-4000.
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