Preventing Badminton Injuries: Key Risk Factors and Tips for Avoidance
- Julian Simpson
- Jun 23
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Preventing Badminton Injuries: Key Risk Factors and Tips for Avoidance
Although badminton is widely regarded as a non-contact sport, the reality is that injuries are remarkably common among players at all levels of the game. The fast-paced nature of badminton, combined with its dynamic movements, makes it susceptible to a variety of injuries that can hinder performance and lead to long-term issues.
Both acute injuries, which occur suddenly during play, and overuse injuries, which develop gradually over time due to repetitive strain, are prevalent in badminton.
These injuries are closely linked to the sport's repetitive movement patterns including lunges, jumps, quick changes of direction, and powerful overhead strokes. Each of these actions places a significant amount of stress on the body, particularly the joints and muscles, which can lead to injury if proper care and precautions are not taken.
The injury rate in badminton ranges between 1 and 4 injuries per 1000 hours of play, indicating that while the sport may be non-contact, the risk of injury is still considerable. Notably, the lower extremities, including the knees and ankles, are predominantly affected by these injuries. Overuse injuries, such as tendonitis or stress fractures, appear to be a particularly relevant problem, especially among players who engage in frequent training and competition without adequate rest and recovery.
Furthermore, the risk of injury tends to increase with the player's level of play and their history of previous injuries. As players advance in skill and intensity, they often push their bodies harder, which can lead to a higher likelihood of sustaining injuries if they do not employ proper techniques and preventive measures.
How do people get injured?
One of the most significant contributors to injuries in badminton is the smash, which is the stroke associated with the highest risk of an upper-body injury. The forceful nature of this stroke, combined with the need for precise timing and technique, places considerable strain on the shoulders and arms. Interestingly, doubles players tend to have higher rates of upper-body injuries compared to singles players. This is largely due to the increased frequency of attacking strokes, such as the smash, that are executed in doubles play, leading to greater exposure to the risk factors associated with these movements.
Additionally, the lunge is identified as the footwork movement with the highest risk for lower-body injuries. The lunge is a fundamental movement in badminton, essential for reaching the shuttlecock, but it can also place significant stress on the knees and ankles, particularly if performed incorrectly or without proper conditioning.
Interestingly, injuries caused by direct contact with rackets and shuttlecocks account for only a small percentage of total injuries, specifically 7% and 6%, respectively. This suggests that most injuries in badminton arise from non-contact situations, emphasizing the importance of focusing on movement mechanics, conditioning, and injury prevention strategies.
When can players return to play after injury?
Most players can return to play in less than 28 days following an injury, provided that they adhere to appropriate rehabilitation protocols and listen to their bodies. However, the timeline for recovery can vary significantly based on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the individual player's overall health and fitness level. Players must work closely with healthcare professionals to ensure a safe return to the sport, as returning too soon can lead to re-injury and prolonged recovery times.
In conclusion, while badminton is a thrilling and competitive sport, players must remain vigilant about the risk of injuries. Understanding the common risk factors, recognizing how injuries occur, and following proper recovery protocols can significantly contribute to a safer playing experience and enhance overall performance on the court.
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Badminton : What are the injuries and risk factors to avoid
Stepper B, Hecksteden A, Stagge H, Faude O, Donath L. Systematic review on badminton injuries: incidence, characteristics and risk factors. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med. 2025 Jan 2;11(1):e002127. doi: 10.1136/bmjsem-2024-002127. PMID: 39897988; PMCID: PMC11781153.
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