A surge in eye injuries linked to the booming sport of Pickleball has raised concerns, with over 1,250 cases reported in 2024 alone, prompting calls for better eye protection.
- Between 2005 and 2024, there were approximately 3,112 documented eye injury cases related to Pickleball, with a significant increase noted in 2024.
- The study highlighted severe injuries such as retinal detachment, broken eye sockets, and eye bleeding among players, raising alarms in the field of Ophthalmology.
- Eye protection is currently not required for Pickleball, leaving players vulnerable to serious injuries, as reported by doctors from New Jersey involved in the study.
Why It Matters
The rising trend of Pickleball participation and the associated eye injuries underscore the urgent need for public health measures, including mandatory eye protection, to safeguard recreational players from potential long-term damage.