Pickleball and Eye Injuries: What Patients Need to Know

Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. It is fun, social, and easy to learn, which makes it appealing to players of all ages. As more people take up the sport, eye care providers are seeing a concerning trend. Eye injuries related to pickleball are becoming more common.

Why Are Eye Injuries Increasing?
Recent research shows a noticeable rise in pickleball related eye injuries, especially over the past few years. Emergency departments have reported a significant increase in cases, with more than a thousand injuries recorded in a single year.

There are several reasons for this increase:

• More people are playing the sport than ever before

• Many players are new and still developing coordination and awareness

• The court is small, so players are positioned close to one another

• The ball can travel quickly despite its lightweight design

While pickleball may seem low risk, the combination of speed and proximity can create situations where the eyes are vulnerable.
 

Who Is Most at Risk?

Adults over the age of 50 make up a large portion of reported injuries. This may be related to natural changes in reaction time, balance, and coordination. Falls are also more likely in this age group.

That said, eye injuries can happen to anyone, especially beginners who are still learning the pace and positioning of the game.
 

Common Types of Eye Injuries

Most pickleball eye injuries are mild but still require attention. Common issues include:

• Cuts or bruising around the eye

• Corneal abrasions, which are scratches on the surface of the eye

• Black eye or swelling

• Inflammation inside the eye known as iritis
   

More serious injuries can occur and may threaten vision if not treated quickly. These include:

• Bleeding inside the front of the eye

• Fractures of the bones around the eye

• Retinal detachment

• Direct trauma to the eyeball
   

How Do These Injuries Happen?

The majority of injuries occur from:

• Direct impact from the ball

• Accidental contact with a paddle

• Falls during play

Because of the fast pace and close quarters, even experienced players can be caught off guard.
 

The Good News: Most Injuries Are Preventable

The most important takeaway is that many of these injuries can be prevented.

Protective eyewear made from polycarbonate material is highly effective at reducing the risk of eye injury. These lenses are designed to withstand impact and are commonly used in sports settings. Despite this, many players do not wear any eye protection.
 

Practical Tips for Patients

If you play pickleball or are thinking about starting, consider the following:

• Wear protective sports eyewear rather than regular glasses

• Stay aware of your partner’s position and paddle movement

• Keep your eyes on the ball throughout play

• Take time to learn proper technique before playing competitively
   

When to Seek Care

Any eye injury should be evaluated promptly. Seek care right away if you experience:

• Eye pain or redness

• Blurry or decreased vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Flashes, floaters, or a shadow in your vision
   

Early treatment is important and can help prevent long term damage.
 

Final Thoughts

Pickleball is a great way to stay active and connected with others. Like any sport, it carries some risk, but simple precautions can go a long way in protecting your vision.

Wearing proper eye protection is an easy step that can make a meaningful difference.

Sources
Lacher CR, et al. Pickleball Related Ocular Injuries Among Patients Presenting to Emergency Departments. JAMA Ophthalmology, 2025

American Medical Association. Pickleball eye injury trends and prevention insights

Ophthalmology Times. Ocular pickleball injuries rise with sport popularity

Medical Xpress. Study highlights increase in pickleball related eye injuries

Harvard Health Publishing. Pickleball related eye injuries increasing