Tennis Injuries

Introduction

Tennis, a dynamic and exhilarating sport, offers numerous health benefits. However, it also carries a risk of injury due to factors like high-speed racquet impact and repetitive movements. Commonly affected areas include the spine, legs, and particularly the dominant arm.

This article, with insights from a physiotherapist’s perspective, aims to inform tennis enthusiasts about injury prevention, proper equipment use, and the importance of professional advice.

The Reality of Tennis Injuries

Despite its name, tennis elbow is surprisingly not the most common tennis-related injury. In the general population, tennis injuries occur at a rate of approximately five per 1,000 hours of play. Hospital admissions for these injuries stand at 33 per 100,000 players, though most injuries do not require hospitalisation.

Common Causes and Injury Types

Lower Limb Injuries

Predominantly affecting the ankles, knees, and thighs, these result from the sport’s demanding physical nature, including sprinting and pivoting. They range from acute, like ankle sprains, torn calf muscles, Achilles tendon ruptures to chronic conditions, such as knee tendinopathy.

Upper Limb Injuries

Elbow, shoulder, and wrist injuries often arise from high-velocity and repetitive arm movements, leading to conditions like tennis elbow, rotator cuff tears or wrist sprains.

Back Pain

Common due to the rotational movements in groundstrokes and the complex motion in serves. While most injuries with be back muscle strains, over use injuries such as back stress fractures can occur.

Tennis Equipment: Making the Right Choices

• Racquet Selection: It’s crucial to choose a racquet that matches your play style, experience, and physical stature. Especially for those with arm and shoulder issues, professional guidance is key.
• Playing Surface Maintenance: Regular checks can prevent accidents and enhance play quality.
• Ball Selection: Use balls suited for your playing surface and avoid wet or flat ones.

Children and Tennis

• Age-Appropriate Equipment: Children should use gear matching their age, size, and skill level.
• Modified Programs: Encourage participation in beginner programs like Hot Shots, which use modified equipment to foster skill and technique development.

The Right Footwear and Support

• Shoe Advice: Tennis shoes, typically more robust than running shoes, should be chosen with professional help. They must cater to the sport’s multidirectional nature.
• Foot Support: Exercises and possibly orthotics might be necessary for certain foot types.
• Joint Support: Players with previous joint injuries should consider taping or bracing, after consulting a professional.

Identifying Risk Factors

• Court surface type.
• Condition and type of tennis balls.
• Racquet selection and string tension.
• Shot technique.
• Weather conditions.
• Footwear suitability.
• Physical fitness level.
• Volume and intensity of play.
• Prior injury management.

Other Tennis Tips: Prevention is Better Than Cure

• Preparation: A comprehensive warm-up, stretching, and cool-down routine is essential.
• Fitness: Maintain a fitness level appropriate for tennis demands, focusing on conditioning exercises.
• Technique and Practice: Good technique minimises injury risk. Regular coaching can help develop correct skills.
• Diversity in Practice: Avoid over-repetition of a single shot type. Practice a variety of strokes to balance muscle use.

Conclusion: Embrace the Game Safely

Tennis is a sport that combines fun with fitness but requires awareness and precaution to prevent injuries. Regular consultation with a physiotherapist can guide you in equipment choice, technique refinement, and injury prevention strategies.

Remember, the best way to enjoy tennis is to play it safely and smartly. So, whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, always seek the advice of a physiotherapist to stay at the top of your game.