The local experts at Kansas Joint & Spine Specialists note that the surge in pickleball’s popularity is contributing to a noticeable rise in related injuries. This trend is also reflected at the national level, according to recent reports from insurance providers and industry analysts. As a leading orthopaedic provider, the doctors at Kansas Joint & Spine Specialists deliver high-quality preventive, nonsurgical and surgical care for athletic injuries. To help pickleball enthusiasts enjoy the game safely and avoid setbacks, the practice’s doctors have outlined key guidelines for injury prevention and smart play. Patients seeking expert care for pickleball injuries are encouraged to call 316-219-8299 to schedule an appointment at the practice’s East office location at 10100 E. Shannon Woods Circle, Suite 100, or their office location in Anthony at Patterson Health Center, 485 N. Kansas Highway 2.

The doctors at Kansas Joint & Spine Specialists serve as the exclusive regional doctors for Pickleball Doctors, a national authoritative resource on pickleball injury prevention and treatment from specialty-trained orthopaedic and sports medicine doctors. The practice’s pickleball experts include Drs. Bradley Bruner, Kellis Bulleigh, Ryan Livermore, Jon Morgan, Justin Strickland, Damion Walker and Camden Whitaker.

“Pickleball offers tremendous health benefits, and we want players to enjoy those safely,” said fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon Dr. Bradley Bruner. “From injury prevention to advanced orthopaedic treatment, we’re committed to keeping our local athletes in top shape.”

The pickleball injury experts at Kansas Joint & Spine Specialists provide a list of the most common injuries affecting pickleball players and ways to avoid them:

• Pickleball elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Repeating the same arm movements can lead to this condition. To help prevent it, always warm up before activity and take regular breaks to rest your arm.
• Knee injuries: Quick pivots or unexpected falls can lead to ligament or meniscus injuries. Protect your knees by wearing supportive shoes and staying aware of your movements on the court.
• Wrist injuries: Falls or poor technique can put strain on your wrists. To reduce the risk of injury, wear supportive braces or wraps and focus on using proper stroke mechanics.
• Hip fractures: Taking a fall on the court can lead to a hip fracture. Reduce your risk by wearing proper footwear and keeping the court free of any obstacles.
• Achilles tendon ruptures: Repetitive stress may irritate or even tear the Achilles tendon. Protect it by warming up thoroughly and building up your training intensity gradually.

“Maintaining joint health through strength training and smart play habits goes a long way in preventing overuse injuries,” said Dr. Bruner. “Early intervention also plays a vital role when injuries do occur.”

To learn more or to schedule an appointment with the specialty-trained doctors at Kansas Joint & Spine Specialists, call 316-219-8299.