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The rise in popularity of pickleball is reshaping recreational sport in Canada, as reported by Pickleball Canada. In 2022, approximately one million Canadians embraced this low-impact racket sport, and projections suggest that by 2025, that figure could soar to around 1.54 million participants.
“We’re witnessing a diverse range of individuals engaging in this sport, from young adults to seniors,” observed Chelsey Hobson, a physiotherapist at Leading Edge Physio. “With this expansion in participation, we’re also seeing a notable increase in sports-related injuries.”
The spectrum of injuries associated with pickleball varies, encompassing issues such as elbow, knee, wrist, and shoulder pain, alongside more serious conditions like head injuries, ACL tears, Achilles ruptures, and severe calf strains.
Recovery from more serious injuries can be extensive, often requiring weeks of rehabilitation or even surgical interventions. An Edmonton physiotherapy clinic has reported a consistent influx of new pickleball-related injuries, receiving patients at least weekly over recent months. This figure does not account for existing patients who may be suffering from complications related to new injuries.
As the sport continues to thrive, it becomes increasingly important for players to be aware of injury risks and to take preventive measures to maintain their health and enjoyment of the game.
Source
globalnews.ca