Warning to Padel Players: Injuries commonly occur in the feet and ankles, rather than the arms, while playing the sport.

Padel, a fast-paced sport that combines speed, strategy, and physical demand, can lead to various injuries for players. Dr. Francisco Castillo, a medical doctor specializing in common injuries associated with playing padel, emphasizes the importance of understanding these sport-specific musculoskeletal injuries and their prevention and treatment.

The most common types of injuries in padel include Achilles tendon injuries, ankle sprains, and muscle tears. These injuries can occur acutely or chronically, often due to repetitive overload. For instance, muscle tears, which usually affect players over 35 years old, can cause intense pain, often in the calf.

Injuries in padel can develop immediately or progressively. Intense and incapacitating pain is a sign that requires immediate attention. If the pain does not allow for foot support or walking, a specialist should be consulted. Ankle sprains, for example, result in pain, inflammation, and mobility limitation.

Preventive measures are crucial in avoiding injuries in padel. Warming up and stretching before playing can help prevent injuries. Avoiding overload through breaks and progressive training techniques is also essential. Incorporating personalized insoles according to the morphology of the foot is another preventive measure. Players with very flat or high arches, or those who have suffered previous injuries, may benefit from orthopedic insoles.

Appropriate footwear, specifically designed for padel, can reduce the risk of injuries. Listening to one's body is key in identifying the need for a specialist consultation. If the pain persists or appears repeatedly, even at rest, it's time to see a specialist in padel injuries.

Deformity or changes in the shape of the foot can occur in cases of fractures or dislocations in padel injuries. In such cases, immediate professional attention is necessary. Initial treatment for foot or ankle injuries includes rest, elevation of the limb, and application of ice.

For padel players with a history of sprains, chronic pain in feet or ankles, or anatomical alterations such as flat feet or high arches, it is advisable to consult a specialist before starting the sport. Dr. Castillo's professional expertise is invaluable in explaining how to prevent and treat these frequent, sport-specific injuries caused by the constant stress padel places on tendons, ligaments, and muscles, especially in the feet and ankles.

Padel is a physically demanding sport, and players should take care to protect themselves from potential injuries. By following these preventive measures and seeking professional advice when necessary, players can continue to enjoy the sport they love without the risk of injury.