Pickleball is a very popular sport right now, combining tennis and ping pong. In pickleball, two to four players meet on an indoor or outdoor court to hit a plastic ball with paddles over a net.
Pickleball can be a healthy sport for all ages. It has also led to a rise in sports injuries, though. If you’re injured on the court and need to determine whether you have a claim, the father-son lawyer team at Flaxman Law Group is here for you. After your injury, contact us immediately for a free, no obligation case consultation with a Hollywood sports injury claims lawyer.
What are Common Pickleball Injuries?
Pickleball can lead to:
- Achilles tendon injuries
- Head injuries
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Fractures
- Sprains and strains
- Injuries to the hips, legs, and ankles
- Slipped discs and other back injuries
How Do I Prevent Pickleball Injuries?
You can stay safer on the courts with these tips:
- Don’t just jump into it. If it’s been a while since you exercised, especially, talk to your doctor first to make sure you’re in good physical condition for the sport. You may need to work up your core strength to compete.
- Play with competitors in the same shape as you are. One of the reasons some injuries happen on the court is because seniors play on the same team as teenagers. You’re safest when you play pickleball with those who are in the same physical condition as you.
- Wear the right gear. Sturdy sports shoes and gear give you the traction and mobility you need to prevent falls on the court. If you’re just starting out, choose a lighter paddle, too, as this may cause less strain as you swing.
- Check the court first. Make sure the court is even, with no signs of undue wear and tear to the net or the surface. Ensure there are no spills on the court, either. Always play on a proper court rather than outside in a field or park, where the ground can be uneven.
- Don’t over-grip the paddle. A common pickleball injury happens when players grip the paddle too hard. If they then swing with force, they can easily pull muscles in their arms and shoulders.
- Warm up. Stretches and gentle movement get blood flowing to the muscles and get you ready for safe play.
- Don’t push yourself. Take it easy and start with relaxed games before moving into more forceful play. If you notice any twinges or pain, stop.
- Who is Liable for My Sports Injury?
Most pickleball injuries are not anyone’s fault and they simply happen due to strains or overwork of some muscle groups. However, the owners of pickleball courts and the manufacturers of sports gear do have an obligation to provide safe sports and safe equipment. When they fail to do so and you’re injured as a result, you may have a claim.
Let’s look at some potential scenarios where you may have a claim for a pickleball injury:
- The owners of a rec center or pickleball court failed to design or maintain a safe court.
- A court was not properly cleaned between users, resulting in water or spills on the floor.
- A paddle or other sports equipment was poorly designed or manufactured, causing injury during play.
If you suspect your pickleball sports injury was caused by negligence, it’s worthwhile to talk to a Florida sports injury attorney. An injury doesn’t just keep you from the game. It can also leave you with high medical bills and lost time at work, so pursuing financial recovery can be important.
Many people assume they don’t have a case because their gym or rec center has signs saying that using their courts is “at your own risk.” Even if this is the case, you may have a claim. Let’s talk about it. Contact Flaxman Law Group if you’ve been injured and talk to a Hollywood sports injury lawyer about your potential claim. Your first consultation with us is free and comes with absolutely no obligation.