HOLYOKE, Mass. (Aging Untold) — Pickleball, a mashup of ping-pong, tennis and badminton, has been around since 1965, but has recently exploded in popularity.

While the sport offers numerous social and physical benefits, there’s also a growing list of injuries that could put players in a pickle.

At Holyoke Community College in Massachusetts, Sharon Grundel manages health care training programs and enjoys playing pickleball. But Grundel admits the fun on the court can come with risks.

“I was hit in the eye with a pickleball at close range,” Grundel said.

Barbara Johnson plays with Grundel and says she has experienced the joy of winning and witnessed the agony of injury.

“I was just playing with a friend a few weeks ago, and he ruptured his Achilles tendon while we were playing,” Johnson said.

Older adults push too hard

Board-certified physician Dr. Rhea Rogers explains that many pickleball injuries occur in older adults who may push themselves too hard on the court.

“A lot of sprains — be the sprains in the ankle, the knees, or the wrist. A lot of people are just inflamed. So overuse,” Rogers said.

To help protect against getting hurt, players should understand the sport and what their bodies can tolerate. Strengthening the lower body and core can help with balance and coordination.

“It’s not like you can resume at age 60 where you left off at 18. Because your body has made some changes. You have to work yourself up to it. You know, even if it’s just walking – a little bit of exercise… building muscle,” Rogers said.

Building muscle is key to longevity

Rogers emphasized the importance of gradual conditioning.

“And we always say in the medical world. Muscle is the currency of longevity. When you have muscle, you have a balance. You’re putting all those different things together. But that – it’s a gradual thing that you have to work way up to,” she said.

Copyright 2026 Gray Media Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.