Stay in the game

Each year more than 900,000 Australians participate in tennis. It is the third most popular organised sport behind aerobics & golf. The sprinting, stopping, starting, bending & stretching nature of the game puts repetitive stresses on the musculoskeletal system and demands both aerobic and anaerobic fitness. Many tennis injuries for both the competitive and social player can be reduced through proper conditioning and training, equipment selection, proper care of the court and adherence to the rules of the game.

Common Injuries in Adults

Although tennis is not a contact sport, players at every level may sustain injuries. The most common injuries are rotator cuff tendinitis, tennis elbow, wrist strains, back pain, anterior (front) knee pain involving the knee cap, calf and achilles tendon injuries, ankle sprains, and tennis toe.

Common Injuries in Children

Muscle and ligament sprains linked to overuse are the most common types of injury among young tennis players.

Conditioning

Conditioning for tennis includes any forms of exercise designed to prepare your body for the physical fitness demands of the game. This includes any exercise that increases your stamina, quickness, strength, and power.

Following a planned conditioning programme can improve your performance and prevent injuries. You may wish to consult a sports physiotherapist, accredited tennis coach or medical professional that can recommend an appropriate programme.

Equipment

Comfort is important, so select loose fitting clothes, preferably made from fabrics designed to keep the wearer cool and dry. Wear shoes that are designed specifically for racket sports and provide stability and cushioning. Consider wearing socks that wick away perspiration and reduce friction. Reduced friction can help avoid blisters. Buy a racket that is light, feels comfortable and matches your ability and style of play. Seek advice from your tennis coach or appropriately trained staff at your local sports store.

Coaching & Education

All coaches should be accredited and undergo regular training and re-accreditation provided through Tennis Coaches Australia and State divisions. Practice sessions should comprise a balanced variety of tennis strokes and other training activities.

Injury Prevention

All players should routinely warm-up, cool-down and stretch before and after every game and training session. Follow the warm-up by stretching. Consider wearing specially designed supports for the wrist, elbow and knee to absorb shock. Keep a first-aid kit handy and know how to use it. For example, have compresses available for bruises, and antiseptics and non-adhesive dressings for abrasions. Players should not ‘play on’ when injured. Players with recurrent injuries should seek expert advice on appropriate taping or bracing and rehabilitation.

Hot Weather & Hydration

Players should replace fluid loss by consuming 2-3 glasses at least 30 minutes before play and 1-2 glasses every 15 minutes during play. This will also avoid cramps and stiffness. A broad-spectrum sunscreen should always be applied.

Care off the Court

Tennis facility owners, associations and clubs should develop and implement risk management/sports safety plans to eliminate injury hazards, such as hollows, cracks and wear on playing surfaces. Equipment and seating should be kept away from court boundaries and net posts should be padded.

Modify Training & Games for Children

Children should be progressively introduced to tennis through the modified games programme promoted by Tennis Australia. Children should play with an appropriate racquet in terms of size & weight. As children progress from modified games to regular tennis, parents should consult an accredited coach on a suitable training routine.