Padel, sometimes referred to as padel tennis, is becoming more and more popular in South Africa. The dynamic gameplay and the strong sense of community it creates among players are what make it so appealing. More people are picking up a racket and taking to the court, whether they are weekend aficionados or competitive competitors.
However, medical professionals’ concerns are growing along with participation. Due to the physical demands of the sport and the rise in amateur participation, injuries have noticeably increased.
Typical injuries and the reasons behind them
Orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Ashley Naidoo of Netcare Waterfall Hospital has noticed a concerning trend. Padel has great cardiovascular advantages, but it also puts a lot of strain on the body, particularly for players who are not well-prepared.
Ankles, elbows, shoulders, and knees are commonly injured. Beginners and people over 30 are more likely to experience lower limb problems such Achilles tendinitis, tight calves and thighs, and ankle sprains. Using heavy rackets or having poor technique can lead to upper limb injuries, such as wrist, shoulder, and elbow pain.
According to research conducted in Europe, 2.8 injuries occur for every 1,000 hours of play, affecting about 36% of recreational padel players each year.
The significance of recuperation and warm-ups
Ulaysha Narandas, a physiotherapist at Netcare Waterfall City SOS, emphasizes the value of warming up. Inadequate warm-ups are frequently linked to early-match injuries, particularly in the knees and calves, according to research from Europe and Latin America.
Before playing, Narandas suggests a systematic regimen that consists of 10 minutes of active movement, which includes mobility drills, dynamic stretching, and light jogging. Static stretches that focus on the legs, forearms, and lower back after games can ease tension and hasten recovery.
Informed training and injury avoidance
A clever training program designed specifically for padel players has been implemented by Netcare Waterfall City Hospital in response to the growing injury rates. This program blends instruction with hands-on activities aimed at enhancing performance and lowering the risk of injury.
The program emphasizes strengthening the arms, shoulders, and lower limbs using pneumatic resistance apparatus. Additionally, it stresses single-leg stability and balance, which are essential for padel’s rapid lateral movements and direction changes.
Selecting appropriate footwear
Wearing shoes is essential for preventing injuries. Since padel is usually played on synthetic turf with sand infill, shoes with ankle support and lateral grip are necessary. Because they lack the essential qualities and raise the risk of injury, Dr. Naidoo advises against using running shoes or general trainers.
It is advised to wear shoes made especially for clay or padel surfaces. According to recent Spanish study, hybrid or omni-soles might provide superior impact absorption over conventional herringbone patterns.
Playing wisely for long-term well-being
Dr. Naidoo highlights that players can enjoy padel in a sustainable and safe manner if they take the proper approach. The secret to avoiding injuries is smart training, appropriate warm-ups, appropriate footwear, and evidence-based rehabilitation.
Taking care of your body guarantees that you may continue to enjoy the sport for many years to come, regardless of whether you play for enjoyment or as a serious competitor.
