Pickleball has skyrocketed in popularity, quickly becoming among the most exciting and engaging sports across the United States and beyond. It's a game for people of all ages, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. As the sport's popularity increases, so does the number of associated injuries. Among the most common and concerning pickleball injuries is the Achilles tendon rupture.
With the increase in popularity, pickleball injuries are becoming more and more common, especially Achilles ruptures. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about Achilles ruptures, why they're common in pickleball, treatment options, and, most importantly, how to prevent them.
The Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. It is one of the strongest tendons in the body, allowing you to perform activities like walking, running, and jumping by facilitating foot and ankle movement. However, because the Achilles tendon is so crucial to the lower-body movement, it's also vulnerable to injury, especially during activities involving sudden starts, stops, and changes in direction—like pickleball.
Pickleball is fun and engaging, but it requires rapid foot movements, sudden pivots, and quick bursts of acceleration, which can place significant stress on the Achilles tendon. Players are often required to move laterally across the court or quickly dash forward to reach the ball. These explosive movements can overwhelm the Achilles, especially if you aren't properly conditioned for this activity level or haven't warmed up adequately before playing.
Pickleball is particularly popular among older adults, who may not have the strength and flexibility they once did. Our tendons naturally become less flexible as we age, increasing the risk of injury during high-impact sports. In pickleball, Achilles ruptures are particularly common due to this combination of sudden movements and the demographic of players.
An Achilles rupture often occurs suddenly and is typically accompanied by a distinct popping or snapping sound, followed by intense pain in the back of your lower leg.
Some common symptoms of an Achilles rupture include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after a sudden movement or pivot, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial for your successful recovery.
11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831
5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536
1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691
325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540
315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628
There are two primary approaches to treating an Achilles tendon rupture: non-surgical and surgical treatments. The best option for each patient depends on factors like the severity of the rupture, the patient's age, activity level, and overall health.
Non-surgical treatment is typically recommended for less active individuals or those with a minor Achilles tear. This approach involves immobilizing the foot with a cast or boot, which allows the tendon to heal on its own. Over time, the tendon will reattach, and physical therapy can help restore strength and flexibility. While non-surgical treatment can be effective, the recovery process is longer, and the re-injury risk may be higher than surgical repair.
For most active individuals, surgical repair is the preferred treatment option. Surgery involves reconnecting the torn ends of the Achilles tendon. In the past, this procedure required a large incision and a long period of immobilization, often leading to muscle atrophy, stiffness, and swelling. Patients would be placed in a long leg cast for months, followed by a lengthy rehabilitation period.
Fortunately, advances in orthopedic surgery now allow for minimally invasive procedures. Surgeons can repair the Achilles tendon through small incisions, reducing the risk of complications and allowing for quicker recovery times. With this technique, patients can begin physical therapy sooner, regain mobility faster, and reduce the risk of long-term stiffness or weakness.
The good news is that most people can return to the sports and activities they love with proper treatment. Whether you opt for non-surgical or surgical treatment, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is essential for regaining strength and mobility.
When you see one of our orthopaedic specialists here at POA, they will create a personalized treatment plan for your specific situation. Following your surgeon's recommendations, which may include closely working with a physical therapist, helps to ensure a full recovery. With the right care, many pickleball players can return to the court within 6 to 12 months.
While Achilles ruptures can be a serious and painful injury, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing one.
Make sure you warm up before playing pickleball. A proper warm-up is essential to reduce your risk of injury. Before playing pickleball, spend 5 to 10 minutes stretching your calf muscles and Achilles tendons. Include dynamic stretches such as calf raises, ankle circles, and gentle jogging to get your muscles warm and ready for action.
Strengthen Your Calf Muscles. Building strength in your calf muscles can help take the load off your Achilles tendon. Incorporate exercises such as heel raises, resistance band exercises, and leg presses into your routine to strengthen the muscles that support the Achilles.
Gradually increase your game activity. If you're new to pickleball or haven't played in a while, ease into the game. Avoid going all out in your first few sessions. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your games to allow your body to adapt.
Wear Proper Footwear. Supportive shoes are key in protecting your Achilles tendon. Make sure your shoes have good arch support and cushioning to absorb the impact of quick stops and starts on the pickleball court.
Listen to Your Body. If you experience any pain or tightness in your Achilles, it's important that you take a break and rest. Overworking the tendon can increase your risk of injury. Make sure you pay attention to how your body feels, and don't push through discomfort!
Pickleball is an exciting and fast-growing sport! It's important to pay attention to the injury risks associated with it, particularly Achilles ruptures. While the injury can be serious, advances in treatment—such as minimally invasive surgery—allow for faster recovery and a return to the activities you love. By taking preventative measures like warming up, strengthening your muscles, and wearing proper footwear, you can reduce your risk of injury and continue enjoying the game.
If you do experience an Achilles injury, seek medical attention immediately. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of a full recovery. With the right care and rehabilitation, many players can return to the pickleball court stronger than ever.
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If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
If you are living with cubital tunnel syndrome, it can make your daily functioning uncomfortable and challenging. Imagine waking up daily with tingling sensations in your pinky and ring fingers, sometimes accompanied by sharp pain radiating from your elbow down to your hand. Pain like this causes everyday activities like typing, using your phone, or even holding a cup can become cumbersome. Many people describe feeling a "clumsy" grip or dropping things unexpectedly. This frustrating condition arises from the ulnar nerve, which runs from your shoulder to your hand, being compressed at the elbow, often resulting in persistent discomfort and limited mobility. Read on to learn more about cubital tunnel syndrome.
Cubital tunnel syndrome, sometimes confused with carpal tunnel syndrome, occurs when the ulnar nerve, a nerve that runs along the inner side of your elbow, becomes compressed.
Several factors contribute to this compression:
The symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome often manifest as follows:
If you're experiencing hand pain but these symptoms don't match up, take a look at our comprehensive blog on numbness and tingling in your hands.
While cubital tunnel syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome share some similarities, they affect distinctly different areas and nerves. By name, it can seem easy to confuse, but once you understand each condition, you can better determine which may be causing your pain.
Affects the ulnar nerve at the elbow
Pain radiates from elbow to hand
Symptoms include pinky and ring finger numbness
Symptoms may worsen with elbow flexion
Affects the median nerve at the wrist
Pain typically radiates from wrist to hand
Symptoms include thumb and index finger numbness
Symptoms worsen with wrist flexion
Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome arise due to compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve. When your ulnar nerve is compressed, it can lead to dysfunction in the hand, causing numbness, weakness, and pain.
Prevention can be the first line of treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome. You can help prevent it by making some easy lifestyle adjustments.
Modify Activities: Reduce repetitive elbow bending and take frequent breaks if your job or activities require it.
Maintain Good Posture: Ensure your workspace is ergonomically friendly to minimize strain on your elbows.
Use Proper Protective Gear: If you plan to participate in activities that have a risk of elbow injury, wearing a protective brace or padding can help prevent cubital tunnel syndrome.
Once diagnosed, it is important to take the proper steps to manage and alleviate your symptoms effectively.
Performing cubital tunnel syndrome exercises, gentle stretches and strengthening exercises, can help relieve tension around the ulnar nerve. Here are a few recommended exercises:
Nerve Glides: | To do this exercise, gently move your wrist and fingers while keeping your elbow straight to help stretch the ulnar nerve. |
Wrist Flexor Stretch: | Extend your arm and pull back your fingers gently to stretch the wrist flexors. This works by helping to alleviate pressure on the nerve. |
Elbow Straightening: | Straighten your arm and hold for a few seconds, repeating several times to promote flexibility. |
Please contact us! We'd love to help.
If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.
If cubital tunnel syndrome symptoms persist despite at-home care, it may be time to consult an orthopaedic surgeon.
Here are signs that indicate the need for professional intervention:
When seeking help for cubital tunnel syndrome, look for an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in elbow, hand and wrist, and upper extremities. These specialists have the expertise to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs.
Treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome may vary based on the severity of the condition:
If you experience sudden loss of sensation, severe pain, or an inability to move your fingers, seek urgent medical attention. These intense symptoms may indicate a more serious issue requiring immediate intervention. When in doubt, we recommend visiting one of our urgent care locations as soon as possible.
11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831
5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536
1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691
325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540
315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628
Although living with cubital tunnel syndrome can be a daily challenge, with the right knowledge and proactive care, you can manage your symptoms effectively. Understanding the condition, seeking timely help from the right orthopaedic specialist, and implementing preventive measures can significantly improve your quality of life.
If you are struggling with symptoms or suspect you may have cubital tunnel syndrome, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with POA's specialists. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care with a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
At Princeton Orthopaedic Associates (POA), our physician assistants (PAs) are integral members of our healthcare team, dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and quality of patient care. Collaborating closely with our physicians, our PAs conduct thorough patient assessments, perform diagnostic tests and develop personalized treatment plans. Their expertise in taking medical histories and conducting physical examinations helps ensure that all patients receive comprehensive and attentive care.
Our PAs are vital communicators, providing education, addressing patient concerns, and facilitating continuity of care. This collaborative approach not only improves patient outcomes but also streamlines workflows within our practice, ultimately benefiting both our healthcare team and the patients we serve!
The national drug epidemic remains a serious threat to public health and safety, with devastating consequences for families and communities across the United States. At POA, we are committed to doing our part to promote the well-being of our patients and the larger community. That’s why we are proud to support the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a vital initiative aimed at reducing the misuse of prescription medications and preventing addiction before it starts.
Proper disposal of unused or expired medications prevents accidental misuse and protects our environment by keeping harmful substances out of water systems and local ecosystems. By participating in Drug Take Back Day, you contribute to the fight against drug addiction and help to make our communities safer and healthier places to live.
If you have unused, unneeded medication at home, we urge you to take action today—find a designated Drug Take Back Day location and safely dispose of any medications you no longer need. Together, we can reduce the risks of overdose, prevent drug-related violence, and build a brighter future.
Visit the Take Back Day Website to find a site near you. Every small step makes a big difference!
The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the muscles in your calf to your heel bone. It is the largest tendon in your body and is important for activities like walking, running, and jumping because it helps your foot push off the ground. The Achilles tendon is made up of two main muscle groups: the gastrocnemius and the soleus. These muscles work together to help you move and keep your ankle stable. Since the Achilles tendon is used a lot during physical activities, it can get injured or develop problems, such as Achilles tendonitis or ruptures. That’s why it’s important to take care of it and keep it flexible.
Imagine waking up in the morning, swinging your feet out of bed, and feeling a sharp, persistent pain at the back of your ankle. You stand up, but each step feels like a battle, with every move reminding you that something isn’t quite right. Whether you’re an athlete or simply someone going about your regular daily activities, dealing with Achilles tendon pain can severely impact your life. Whether it's climbing stairs to walking short distances, every motion becomes a conscious, painful effort. Over time, the discomfort can worsen, which makes it difficult for you to carry out even the simplest tasks, like getting out of bed or standing for extended periods.
Although achilles tendon injuries range in severity, they are all disruptive. Understanding the causes of issues, symptoms, and treatment options can help you prevent long-term damage and help you manage the pain effectively.
Please contact us! We'd love to help.
If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.
The Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the body, connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It transmits the force generated by your muscles to your foot and plays an essential role in walking, running, and jumping. You can imagine that the importance of this tendon also makes it vulnerable to a range of injuries due to overuse, improper footwear, and sudden stress.
Achilles tendon problems are characterized by pain and stiffness, but depending on the type of injury, the location and intensity of your pain can vary.
Achilles tendon pain occurs primarily due to inflammation, degeneration, or tearing of the tendon fibers. These injuries tend to form because of repetitive stress, improper biomechanics, or sudden high-impact movements.
Preventing Achilles tendon injuries requires a combination of good habits and awareness of your body’s limits.
If you’ve injured your Achilles tendon, it’s crucial to address it immediately to prevent further damage. Here are key steps for caring for Achilles tendon issues:
Incorporating specific exercises can aid in recovery and prevent future injuries:
Stand on a step with your heels hanging off the edge. Slowly rise onto your toes, then lower your heels below the level of the step. This exercise strengthens the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.
Sit with your legs extended our in front of you and loop a towel around the ball of your foot. Gently pull the towel towards you while you keep your knee straight.
Stand on one leg, rise onto your toes, and slowly lower yourself down. This exercise focuses on strengthening the tendon while it lengthens.
While at-home care can often alleviate mild Achilles tendon pain, certain symptoms indicate the need for professional intervention:
For Achilles tendon issues, you will want to consult with a sports medicine specialist or a foot and ankle specialist. These surgeons have specific expertise in treating tendon injuries and can offer tailored treatment plans based on your condition.
When you visit a POA orthopaedic surgeon, the treatment plan may include:
If you suspect a rupture or experience intense, sudden pain, don’t wait—seek urgent medical attention. Ruptured tendons require immediate intervention to avoid long-term disability.
11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831
5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536
1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691
325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540
315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628
Achilles tendon injuries can be debilitating, but with proper care and timely treatment, they are manageable. If you’re dealing with persistent Achilles tendon pain or suspect a rupture, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with one of POA’s highly trained orthopaedic surgeons. Whether you need physical therapy, non-invasive treatments, or surgical intervention, our specialists are here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t let Achilles tendon pain keep you from living your life—contact POA today to schedule your consultation.
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
Daily life with a Baker's cyst often feels like an uninvited house guest, quietly making its presence known with discomfort or swelling behind your knee. However, understanding Baker's cyst symptoms and causes can bring you a sense of empowerment and control, time to kick that house guest out. If you have a Baker's cyst, you may notice the area feeling tight or achy, particularly after standing or walking long. Simple activities like climbing stairs, kneeling, or even fully extending your leg might become challenging. As an orthopaedic surgeon at the forefront of musculoskeletal care, I've seen how disruptive Baker's cysts can be to daily life. It's not just the physical discomfort—there's also the lingering uncertainty about what this swelling means and how to manage it.
A Baker's cyst (known as a popliteal cyst) is a fluid-filled sac that forms behind your knee. It develops when excess joint fluid—known as synovial fluid—accumulates in the popliteal bursa; this small sac serves to help cushion the knee joint. This accumulation causes swelling and, in some cases, discomfort.
The Baker's cyst is usually a symptom of an underlying issue, such as arthritis or a meniscus tear. While the cyst can vary in size, it can become large enough to restrict knee movement and cause significant pain.
Bakers cyst symptoms can vary from person to person. Many individuals experience no symptoms at all, while others may notice:
In rare cases, the cyst can rupture, causing a sharp pain with swelling in your lower leg that mimics the symptoms of a blood clot; this can be a medical emergency and should be addressed immediately. Additional symptoms of a ruptured Baker's cyst may include severe pain, sudden swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.
Baker's cysts form in the popliteal space at the back of the knee joint. This space contains the popliteal bursa, which is prone to filling with excess synovial fluid under certain conditions. When the knee experiences inflammation due to arthritis, injury, or other joint issues, the body naturally produces more fluid to cushion the joint. However, when there is too much fluid, it can leak into the bursa and form a cyst.
The location behind the knee makes this area particularly vulnerable to fluid buildup because of its anatomy and function in movement, especially when the knee joint is stressed or overused.
Several underlying conditions can lead to the formation of a Baker's cyst:
While there's no guaranteed way to prevent a Baker's cyst, addressing the underlying causes can reduce the risk of development.
Once you've been diagnosed with a Baker's cyst, there are several steps you can take to manage the condition and reduce discomfort:
Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate the knee joint can help reduce swelling.
Ice: Applying ice to the back of the knee for 15-20 minutes can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Compression: Using a compression bandage can help manage swelling by limiting fluid buildup in the area.
Elevation: Keeping your leg elevated when resting can assist in reducing fluid accumulation and discomfort.
Over-the-counter pain relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.
What not to do when you have a Baker's cyst is just as important as understanding what you should do.
Excessive activity: Overusing the knee through high-impact exercises can worsen the condition.
Ignoring symptoms: Don't wait for the pain or swelling to go away on its own—delaying care can worsen the condition.
Assuming it's just a muscle strain: Misdiagnosing a Baker's cyst as a simple muscle strain can lead to improper treatment and an increased risk of rupture.
If your Baker's cyst persists despite home treatment, causes significant discomfort, or interferes with your daily activities, it's time to consult an orthopaedic surgeon. Seeking professional care can provide reassurance and confidence in your decision-making. At POA, our team of expert orthopaedic surgeons specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like Baker's cysts and any potential underlying causes like arthritis or meniscus tears.
If you are looking for a doctor to help with a Baker's cyst, you'll want to see an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in knee conditions. At POA, our knee specialists are highly experienced in managing the symptoms and root causes of Baker's cysts, ensuring you receive personalized, comprehensive care.
Treatment for a Baker's cyst often begins conservatively. In many cases, if the underlying condition causing the cyst is treated, the cyst itself will improve. Here's what medical treatment might involve:
Whether you need imaging, joint aspiration, or surgical intervention, our surgeons have the expertise to guide you through the best treatment options.
While Baker's cysts are rarely life-threatening, there are certain instances where we recommend seeking urgent care. If your cyst ruptures, you may experience severe pain, swelling, and bruising in your lower leg; this can be mistaken for a blood clot. If you experience this, immediately seeking medical attention is crucial to rule out the possibility of a more serious condition such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831
5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536
1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691
325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540
315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628
Living with a Baker's cyst can be frustrating, but with the proper care and treatment, it can be entirely manageable. Understanding the condition, starting to address the root causes, and seeking the expertise of an orthopaedic surgeon can make a world of difference.
If you're experiencing Baker's cyst symptoms, don't let the pain or swelling limit your daily life. The knee specialists at POA are here to provide comprehensive, personalized care and guide you through every step of your treatment plan.
Schedule an appointment today with one of POA's expert orthopaedic surgeons and take the first step toward relief!
A Baker’s cyst is not named after bakers or anything related to baking! Instead, it’s named after the British surgeon William Morrant Baker, who first described the condition in the late 1800s. The cyst itself is a fluid-filled sac that forms behind the knee, often due to issues like arthritis or a meniscus tear. While it might sound like something that might happen to a baker, the name is purely a nod to the doctor’s contributions to understanding this knee issue. So, if you ever hear someone mention a Baker’s cyst, remember it's all about medical history and not about pastry!
Please contact us! We'd love to help.
If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
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