Pickleball eye injuries skyrocket in the US

(Dan Tri) - According to the journal JAMA Ophthalmology (USA), eye injuries related to pickleball will increase rapidly by 2024.

Along with its popularity, pickleball is creating an alarming wave of injuries. Medical experts have just warned about the rapid increase in eye injuries related to this sport.

A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology reveals that between 2005 and 2024, an estimated 3,112 pickleball-related eye injuries were reported to emergency rooms in the United States. In 2024 alone, there were more than 1,250 cases.

Pickleball-related eye injuries to increase significantly from 2021-2024 (Photo: Getty).

Doctors in New Jersey, USA warn that among the serious eye injuries related to this popular sport are many cases of retinal detachment, eye socket rupture and intraocular hemorrhage (bleeding in the eye).

Research results indicate that the majority of eye injuries from pickleball are due to "ball hits" at 43%, falls at 28% and racket hits at about 12%.

From a professional perspective, they said these injuries not only affect immediate vision but can also cause long-term sequelae if not intervened promptly. The sequelae can cause patients to lose peripheral vision, distort images, or cause intraocular scarring.

Nowadays, not only amateur pickleball players but even professional athletes are not required to use eye protection during competition or practice.

According to the physicians involved in the study, these results strongly support the need for new standardized guidelines on eye protection during sports.

They argue that pickleball governing bodies should consider enacting mandatory regulations or at least strongly recommending the wearing of protective eyewear, reducing the risk of serious eye injuries.

Pickleball was invented in 1965 in Washington state (USA). This sport combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. This sport has become popular in recent times thanks to its simple rules, contributing to the game's wide appeal, with an estimated 20 million players in the US.

Athletes should wear sports glasses when playing pickleball to protect their eyes (Photo: Getty).

Pickleball offers many health benefits, community bonding, and sporting fun. But like any fast-paced sport, there is the potential for injury, especially to the eyes.

Being alert and properly equipped with protective measures will help players enjoy their passion while avoiding unnecessary injuries.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/chan-thuong-mat-khi-choi-pickleball-tang-vot-o-my-20251017140259434.htm