Understanding Upper Extremity Injury Prevalence and Risk in Pickleball Players: A Nationwide Survey

OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence and predictors for upper extremity injury in pickleball players. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study METHODS: Pickleball players aged ≥18 years from across the United States were invited to take a pre-validated survey. The primary outcome was self-reported upper extremity all-complaint injuries (time-loss and non-time-loss) in the past 12 months. Collected through a survey, potential predictor variables were sex, age, playing time (amount per week), and perception of injury prevention programs. Injury prevalence was reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and injury predictors were analyzed using multivariable logistics regression. RESULTS: 1758 athletes responded. 689 (95% CI: 37.0%–41.6%) players reported experiencing at least one upper extremity injury (male 42.0%; female 37.0%). 285 (95% CI: 14.5%–18.0%) reported time-loss injuries and 527 (95% CI: 27.7–32.1) experienced non-time-loss injuries. The most frequently cited injury types were chronic overuse conditions (41%), sprains (24%), strains (20%). The significant predictors of injury were male sex, increased frequency of play during the week, shorter play history, and decreased perceived importance of injury prevention. CONCLUSION: Upper extremity injuries in pickleball players were common; 1 in 3 athletes reported injuries annually. Non-time-loss and chronic injuries were the most common injuries.