Eye Injuries in Pickleball – How Common They’re?
Over the past decade, pickleball has exploded in popularity, becoming one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. As of 2023, there are an estimated 5 million pickleball players in the country, with participation growing at 21.3% annually.
This racquet sport combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis and is particularly popular among adults ages 55 and up.
The meteoric rise in pickleball’s popularity increases the risk of injury, including serious eye injuries. The hard plastic pickleball travels up to 60 miles per hour during competitive play at high velocities.
Despite pickleball’s reputation as a low-impact activity, the ball’s speed and the players’ proximity on a small court pose a significant risk of injury to unprotected eyes.
This Detailed Guide Covers How common are eye injuries in pickleball.
Pickleball Eye Injuries Are Underreported
While national data on pickleball eye injuries is limited, ophthalmologists report a concerning rise in their treatment of pickleball-related injuries, including retinal tears, detached retinas, and vision loss.
A 2022 case study documented two instances of retinal tears caused by blunt trauma from a pickleball directly striking players’ eyes.
Experts believe pickleball eye injuries are vastly underreported across the country. Better surveillance is required to understand the true risk since many less severe injuries may not be reported to hospitals or emergency rooms.
Although eye injuries are trending upward, participation is also expected to increase.
Eyewear Protects Serious Injuries
The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that 90% of sports-related eye injuries are preventable with proper eye protection.
Protective eyewear should be strongly considered while playing pickleball to prevent serious injury from an errant ball or paddle.
Polycarbonate sports goggles with wraparound protection offer the most complete coverage. Well-fitted sports glasses made of impact-resistant polycarbonate provide good protection, although they typically provide less coverage.
Even everyday eyeglasses made of polycarbonate plastic instead of glass lenses reduce the chances of eye injury.
Eye protection eliminates the risk of severe damage, allowing pickleball enthusiasts to socialize and exercise.
Age 65+ Pickleball Players Face Higher Injury Risks
With nearly one-fifth of pickleball participants ages 65 and over, eye injuries in this population are particularly concerning.
Visual clarity decreases with age, making it harder to react to fast-moving balls, increasing the chances of blunt force trauma. Age also makes eye tissues more fragile and healing slower after injury.
Seniors also face higher risks of complications if they sustain eye injuries. Previous research shows older adults have a 2-5 times greater risk of retinal detachment after eye trauma compared to younger players.
If left untreated, retinal detachment can lead to blindness, requiring immediate surgery.
Given their vulnerability, eye doctors strongly advise older pickleball players to prioritize wearing eye protection.
Investing in sports glasses or goggles can prevent devastating, vision-threatening injuries.
Pickleball Eye Safety Standards Needed
As pickleball popularity continues skyrocketing, medical experts call for increased eye safety standards.
The current rulebook needs clear guidelines for eye protection by players, line judges, and spectators.
Most racquet sports prioritize eye protection, but pickleball does not. Using updated rules, equipment standards, and health messaging, USA Pickleball and other governing organizations can embed eye safety into the sport’s Rulebook
Key Factors Driving Risk of Eye Injuries in Pickleball
Understanding why eye injuries occur more frequently in pickleball helps players make informed decisions about proper precautions. Key risk factors include:
Small Court Size
Pickleball courts measure 20×44 feet, much smaller than a tennis court. The compact playing area leaves less reaction time to avoid close-range hits. Courts enclosed by fences also limit escape routes from fast-moving balls.
High Ball Velocity
An average smash by advanced players strikes the pickleball at up to 60 mph. While slower than a tennis serve, the proximity of opponents magnifies the risk of blunt-force eye trauma before players can react.
Paddle Edge Shape
Many pickleball paddle edges are squared-off rather than rounded. The sharp angle concentrates force in a smaller area on impact, creating a risk of penetrating eye injuries.
Ball Construction
Pickleballs have a rigid plastic surface covering the perforated ball. The hard outer layer transfers substantial energy directly to the eye surface upon collision.
Two-Handed Grips
Many players use a two-handed grip on pickleball paddles, reducing visibility on the non-dominant side and increasing the chances of accidental self-inflicted injuries.
Recommendations for Preventing Eye Injuries
Pickleball may never adopt mandatory eye protection rules. But players can take responsibility by proactively mitigating vision and eye health risks. Recommendations include:
Wear Eye Protection
For racquet sports, wear sports goggles or polycarbonate protective lenses. Make sure your eyes are protected with sports goggles or polycarbonate lenses. The frames must be well-fitted to prevent balls from going around or under them.
Favor Rounded-Edge Paddles
Choose paddles with a rounded or slightly bevelled edge to reduce the risk of penetrating injuries.
Instead of sharp angles, the paddle face should have some curvature.
Position Your Body Strategically
Orient your body so the non-paddle side faces opponents executing powerful shots when possible. Wearing protective gear, for instance, reduces the exposure of your eyes to direct impact from a pickleball.
Increase Vigilance Around the Net
Focus on the non-volley zone and net, where opponents may hit errant shots. It is easier to react quickly when you are mentally prepared.
Play With Skilled Partners
Choose partners who are competent at controlling shots to limit uncontrolled shots. Ensure you avoid opponents who lack directional accuracy or cannot consistently control their smash power.
Here are some more Recommendations for Preventing Eye Injuries
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common questions regarding eye injuries in pickleball are:
What Is The Risk Of Eye Injuries In Pickleball?
Eye injuries in pickleball are relatively common due to the speed and trajectory of the ball.
Players may risk getting hit in the eye, leading to various injuries, including retinal tears and detachment.
How Can Pickleball Players Protect Their Eyes From Injuries?
Players should always wear adequate eye protection while on the court to prevent eye injuries in pickleball.
This is especially important due to the higher risk for retinal detachment and tears due to an injury from a pickleball or other objects.
What Are The Specific Types Of Eye Injuries That Can Occur In Pickleball?
In pickleball, players may experience localized retinal detachment, symptomatic retinal tears, or trauma to the eye from a pickleball injury.
It’s crucial to be mindful of potential injuries, such as trauma to the left eye from a pickleball, and take appropriate precautions to prevent them.
Why Are Older Individuals Particularly Vulnerable To Eye Injuries In Pickleball?
Due to the sport’s popularity among older people, who are more susceptible to eye injuries like a symptomatic retinal tear 1 month after an incident due to age-related changes in eye health, the necessity for eye protection should be strongly emphasized.
This makes it crucial for older players to prioritise eye protection while enjoying the sport.
How Does Pickleball Compare To Other Sports Like Tennis Or Ping-Pong Regarding Eye Injury Risk?
Pickleball continues to gain popularity, and with that comes a need for awareness of potential injuries, including eye injuries.
Compared to tennis and ping-pong, the risk of eye injuries in pickleball should be strongly considered, and appropriate precautions should be taken.
What Should Players Do If They Experience An Eye Injury While Playing Pickleball?
If a player sustains an eye injury during a game of pickleball, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention. Proper evaluation and care for the affected eye are essential, whether a symptomatic retinal tear or another type of injury.
Can A Pickleball Injury Cause Long-term Damage To The Eye?
Depending on the severity of the injury, a pickleball-related eye injury can lead to long-term consequences such as retinal tears. This underscores the importance of preventive measures to protect the eyes while playing.
Final Thoughts
Due to pickleball’s increasing popularity, eye safety measures must be increased. Players, coaches, governing bodies, and equipment makers must commit to making eye protection second nature in pickleball.
By taking proactive precautions, enthusiasts can continue enjoying this fast-growing sport’s social and physical benefits without sacrificing vision or eye health.
Safety glasses are a small price to see the ball clearly for years.
Stay Healthy and Play Hard!!
