Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports, especially among recreational athletes. While it’s a great way to stay active, the quick movements and changes in direction can lead to injuries, particularly if certain muscle groups aren’t strong enough to handle the physical demands. In our Boulder Physical Therapy and Lafayette Physical Therapy clinics we often see patients with both traumatic and overuse pickleball injuries.
A recent research study published in the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy (IJSPT) by Betsy Myers and June Hanks (2024), titled Hip Strength, Change of Direction, and Falls in Recreational Pickleball Players, utilized a cross-sectional study design with 37 recreational pickleball players.The study highlights the critical role that hip strength plays in preventing falls and enhancing agility on the court. It found that recreational pickleball players with weaker hip strength had a higher risk of falls and demonstrated poorer performance in change-of-direction tasks, emphasizing the need for physical therapy to develop targeted strengthening programs that enhance hip stability and overall athletic performance. This research is especially relevant for older athletes who are more prone to balance issues and falls.
Click here to schedule your next appointment with the experts at MEND at our Lafayette location. MEND is a physical therapy clinic with locations in Boulder and Lafayette, Colorado. Our orthopedic specialists have gone through extensive training to ensure we deliver the best possible care to our clients. For more information on tennis and racquet sports injuries and treatment options, please visit our blog and schedule a free consultation with one of our orthopedic clinical specialists.