Introduction to Pickleball-Related Injuries
Pickleball, which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has mass appeal thanks to its low-impact design, accessibility, and straightforward rules. Played by 19.8 million people in 2024, this wildly popular sport actually serves up some pretty serious eye injuries.
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The Rise of Pickleball-Related Eye Injuries
Pickleball-related eye injuries have increased at an alarming rate over the past four years as the sport continues to grow in popularity. Published in JAMA Ophthalmology, new research shows that pickleball-related eye injuries more than doubled between 2021 and 2024, jumping by over 400 cases annually compared to the previous decade. Researchers are hopeful their findings will encourage players to use proper eyewear.
The Nature of Pickleball-Related Eye Injuries
“People often think of pickleball as an easier sport. It may be lower velocity compared to other types of racquet sports, but it’s still a hard ball that moves fast,” Dr. Matthew Gorski, an ophthalmologist at Northwell Health, told The Post. “You’re in close quarters, and the court is much smaller than something like tennis.” Between 2005 and 2024, there were an estimated 3,112 pickleball-related eye injuries in the US. joescarnici – stock.adobe.com
Causes and Demographics of Injuries
The study revealed that 43% of pickleball-related injuries involved a direct hit from the ball, 28% were due to falls, and 12% from a paddle hit. Pickleball was previously thought of as a game for seniors, but the average player age is now 35, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). Nevertheless, the researchers found that 70% of all pickleball-related injuries were in patients 50 and older. Patients with a history of certain eye surgeries, retinal detachment, nearsightedness, and/or those who take blood thinners may have an increased risk of pickleball-related eye complications. Photographee.eu – stock.adobe.com
Risk Factors and Prevention
“People over 50 in general are often more susceptible to injuries in any sport,” Gorski said. “Many older patients are not as agile to avoid trauma or contact from a ball or paddle or have pre-existing eye diseases that would put them at higher risk for a significant eye injury.” The study showed that people over 50 had a 39% higher risk of an eye injury than younger folks. For pickleball and all racquet sports, Gorski specifically recommends American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F3164 protective eyewear. Proper eyewear should protect both sides and the front of peepers in a wrap-around style made of polycarbonate material.
Celebrity Incidents and Importance of Eyewear
Celebrities are not immune to pickleball pain. Michelle Pfeiffer, 67, revealed in 2023 that she sustained a black eye playing pickleball, and Savannah Guthrie, 53, posted about a similar injury in 2022. In 2023, Michelle Pfeiffer revealed the black eye she got playing pickleball. “You want to ensure your eye protection is made of a proper material that will safely protect your eyes in the event of contact with either the paddle or the ball,” Gorski said.
Conclusion
Pickleball-related eye injuries are a significant concern, especially among players over 50. The importance of wearing proper eyewear cannot be overstated. Players should check with their eye doctor to ensure their eyewear is suitable and see a doctor immediately if they get injured. “Any player who gets hit in the eye, even if it seems trivial, should see their ophthalmologist right away to check for damage,” Gorski said.
FAQs
- Q: What is pickleball, and why is it associated with eye injuries?
A: Pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is associated with eye injuries due to the speed and proximity of the ball and paddle to the players’ faces. - Q: Who is most at risk for pickleball-related eye injuries?
A: Players over 50 are at a higher risk, as well as those with pre-existing eye conditions or taking certain medications. - Q: What type of eyewear is recommended for pickleball?
A: American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F3164 protective eyewear is recommended, which should protect both sides and the front of the eyes in a wrap-around style made of polycarbonate material. - Q: What should I do if I get hit in the eye while playing pickleball?
A: You should see an ophthalmologist right away to check for damage, even if the injury seems trivial.
