Serious Eye Injuries Linked to Pickleball Surge in Vietnam
Growing Concerns Over Eye Injuries in Pickleball
A recreational game has turned into a source of life-altering injuries for two pickleball players in Vietnam, leading ophthalmologists to raise alarms about the increasing number of serious eye injuries associated with the sport's rapid growth. A report from Laodong reveals that a 39-year-old man, referred to as N.V.H from Bac Ninh, was treated at the Central Eye Hospital after being struck in the left eye by a pickleball during a match. Medical professionals indicated that the impact resulted in several complications, including an eyeball contusion, vestibular bleeding, vitreous discharge, and mild corneal edema. His vision deteriorated to the point where he could only perceive palm shadows from a very close distance.
This incident underscores the hidden risks linked to a sport that many consider relatively safe. Dr. Tham Truong Khanh Van, who heads the Trauma Department at the Central Eye Hospital, noted that the patient initially received internal medicine treatment, which led to a slight improvement in his vision. However, the injury later caused a dangerous increase in glaucoma that could not be managed with medication. 'After a period of treatment, the patient's vision improved, but the glaucoma worsened and could not be controlled with drugs,' Dr. Van explained. 'Surgery was necessary to reduce the glaucoma and address complications from the injury.'
Despite the surgical intervention, the patient will need ongoing monitoring and treatment. The injured player had only started playing pickleball three months prior, believing it to be a low-risk sport. However, during a rally, a teammate struck the ball with such force that it unexpectedly changed direction and hit his eye directly, resulting in immediate severe pain and blurred vision.
In a more severe case, a 35-year-old man from Hanoi, known as N.V.C, was admitted in critical condition after suffering a ruptured eyeball, corneal and scleral tears, and extrusion of intraocular tissue. Doctors reported that he completely lost the ability to perceive light, leading to the complete removal of his eye, leaving him permanently blind in that eye.
Medical professionals are noting that such injuries are becoming more frequent as pickleball gains popularity across Asia and beyond. The sport is often marketed as an accessible and beginner-friendly alternative to tennis, appealing to various age groups. However, ophthalmologists caution that the speed of the ball, the short dimensions of the court, and the close proximity of players can create hazardous situations, especially for those who are inexperienced.
According to the Central Eye Hospital, most eye injuries related to pickleball arise from high-speed ball impacts, delayed reflexes, and accidental racket collisions during doubles matches. These recent incidents have reignited discussions about the need for increased awareness regarding player safety, including the potential use of protective eyewear during both competitive and recreational play.