Pickleball has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing sports in North America, attracting players of all ages—especially adults over 60. As participation has increased, so have injuries. National data from U.S. emergency departments show a sharp rise in pickleball-related injuries over the past decade, with most cases occurring in adults aged 60–79. Men and women are affected almost equally, but injury patterns differ: women experience more wrist, hand, and fracture injuries—often from falls—while men sustain more lower body injuries, strains, sprains, and impact-related injuries. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to fall-related wrist fractures, while middle-aged players more commonly experience lower extremity injuries.
The message is clear: pickleball is fun, social, and accessible—but smart preparation matters. Age- and sex-specific injury prevention strategies, proper warm-up, strength training, balance work, and safe playing habits are essential to staying active and enjoying the game safely for years to come.
