APRN Evan Cataldo treating a growing number of patients 45-70 for pickleball-related injuries
Pickleball: The Sudden Superstar Turning 40‑to‑70‑Year‑Olds Into Human Roller Coasters
It’s quick, khazoom, and spreading like wildfire—yet a local orthopedic pro, Evan Cataldo (APRN at Health First Medical Group), warns that the game’s rave appeal is also delivering a wild card of injuries for those in the prime of life.
What’s the Damage?
- Falls—because even the best reflexes misjudge a sudden bounce.
- Tendon sniffles—tiny tears that feel like whispers under the surface.
- Joint flare‑ups—the classic “uh‑yes, I love pain” moment.
Why the Sudden Surge?
Pickleball’s “fast‑fun” formula turns many into human quasi‑acrobatics. Suddenly, the court feels more like an obstacle course, and our 40‑70 year‑old champions are stepping and sliding, loving the hustle but not quite loving the pain.
Patient Voices
“I can’t tell if I won the game or earned a new injury,” says a 58‑year‑old player who’s now using a cane.
Takeaway
Blend the thrill with a dash of caution—lubricate those tendons, keep joints humming, and maybe add a couple of yoga stretches before you fall for another rally.
Health First orthopedic APRN warns that middle-aged players are jumping into the game too fast — and landing in recovery
Pickleball’s Sweet Court, Bitter Injuries
While the paddle‑racket sport is winning hearts across the country, on the flip side it’s also turning out to be a trickster for many adults. Health First’s orthopedic hero, Evan Cataldo, is seeing a steady lineup of mishaps that are making middle‑aged and older players hold their elbows a bit longer.
The Rise of the Pickleball Craze
Pickleball has become the talk of the town – fast, fun, and a lot of social buzz. But the sport’s popularity isn’t just a party‑time win; it’s bringing real‑world aches into the spotlight.
What’s Typically Falling Apart
- Lower‑leg drama: Achilles tendinitis and ankle injuries from take‑out moves.
- Wrist drama: Fractures from the classic “trying‑to‑catch‑yourself” fall.
- Knee flare‑ups: Old osteoarthritis turning hot from the rapid sprints.
Who’s Facing the Complaint Parade?
A common misconception is that pickleball pain is a retiree’s problem, but Cataldo points out the trend is far younger. Most wounded players are in their mid‑40s to mid‑60s — folks who picked up the game because it’s easy to jump into, social, and a lot less intimidating than tennis or basketball.
Why the Injury Roller‑Coaster
The key culprit? How people roll back into active mode.
- Seasoned athletes – moving from one sport to another – usually glide through with fewer mishaps.
- Long‑time lay‑offs – those who’re rekindling old sports habits in a thunder‑storm of moves – often find their tendons stiffening and ligaments tightening. Skipping a warm‑up can turn a swing into a stinger.
Bottom line: If you’re diving into pickleball, don’t forget a proper warm‑up, stay aware of your joint history, and keep those muscles singing before you rush in. A little preparation can keep your pickleball adventure peachy, not painful.
When Pickleball Gets a Pain in the Loo…
Pickleball’s booming popularity has sparked a splash of soreness for many adult players. Orthopedic specialists are noticing an uptick in lower‑leg injuries, from mild strains to outright fractures.
Recovering from the “Paddlesome” Pain
- Minor mishaps: a tweaked muscle or a slight sprain typically takes 2‑4 weeks to heal.
- Major set‑backs: bones cracked or the need for intense rehab can stretch recovery to 8‑12 weeks.
“If you’re ignoring those nagging aches, it can snowball into tendinitis or chronic strain. Patience is the real MVP,” says Evan Cataldo, APRN at Health First Medical Group.
Who’s More Likely to Get Hurt?
Arthritis? Check. But there’s more:
- Heavyweight halo fans—obesity ramps up joint stress, especially during quick pivots or dives.
- Last season’s couch potatoes—if you’ve sat idle for a while, the risk jumps.
- Fitness level—less conditioning equals more strain.
Safe Strategy: Start Slow
Imagine it like drilling into the paint before a slam‑dance basketball showdown or warming up at a golf range before the big league:
- First, just volley—stroke the ball back and forth without sprinting around the court.
- Let your muscles itch to grow—they’ll adapt to the new motion.
- When that feels natural, you can get the full game on your feet.
“Many newbies grab a paddle, jump straight into a league, and then boom—do that and you’re asking for an injury dinner,” adds Cataldo.
So, grab a paddle, ease into it, stay mindful, and enjoy the game without the grief. Good luck, and keep those knees happy!
Pickleball: More Than a Trend
Why it’s still worth picking up a paddle
Pickleball isn’t just a passing craze—passports, actually it’s here to stay. Even as the courts fill up, it’s crucial to keep an eye on injury prevention. Coach‑style chief medical officer Evan Cataldo, a Health First APRN, sums it up in one sentence: “Listen to your body. Stretch and start slow.”
Daily Stretching: Your New Best Friend
Think of stretching as a pocket‑size gym membership. Even on days you’re outside the game, a quick routine keeps the knees and ankles limber. “Staying flexible is a vital safeguard against falls,” Cataldo says. Plus, stronger leg muscles amplify the cardio benefits that keep your heart happy.
Health‑Boosting Side‑Effects
- Cardio power – Pickleball gets your pulse racing and helps improve overall fitness.
- Stability & Strength – Gripping that paddle more often creates stronger, steadier knees and ankles, reducing fall risk.
- Balance & Agility – Regular rallies fine‑tune your coordination and joint flexibility.
- Upper‑Body Dexterity – Your shoulder range of motion looms large, making everyday tasks easier.
“Pickleball Elbow” – Not a New Term, Just a Fun Twist
There’s a playful label, “pickleball elbow,” basically the same as the classic “tennis elbow.” It’s tendinitis from repetitive swings. Cataldo reminds players: “If it hurts, don’t play through it.” No matter what you call it, pain means it’s time to pause and check it out.
Soreness vs. Something Serious – Know the Difference
If you feel a dull ache that fades within a day or two, it’s normal. But sharp pain, clicking, or popping sensations—especially in your joints—should prompt a break and a medical evaluation. Better safe than wrestled with a painful swing.
In short, the pickleball revolution isn’t going anywhere. With a bit of stretching, listening to that little inner voice, and playing it smart, you’ll keep the game fun, safe, and full of benefits.
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