This year’s U.S. Open Pickleball Championship has just wrapped! Held annually in Naples, Fla., this tournament appeals to the interests of those 8 to 88 and beyond. In 2024, more than 3,250 people participated in the competition while 50,000 people watched from the edge of their seats.

Why has pickleball become so popular? This sport has easy-to-learn rules and is simple for anyone to play. It is welcoming and enjoyable for all ages and activity levels, so it really is not surprising that this competition draws such a big crowd.

If watching the championship matches has inspired you to try out pickleball for yourself, there are a few things you should remember.

Safe play always starts and ends with stretching. Incorporating time for a warm-up and a cooldown will help your muscles transition to and from activity more smoothly. It is also important to always use proper equipment and ensure you are using it properly. If you are new to exercise or an older adult, slow and steady is the way to go; gradually building up the amount of effort and time you spend exercising will help you to avoid stress injuries.

Even when conscientious and following the rules, injuries can still happen. Most commonly, areas of the hands, wrists, and elbows are where players feel pain. Swinging and serving repeatedly can cause wear and  tear in those parts of the body. Falling while playing is another way that pickleball athletes can be hurt. And, as with any sport, general muscle soreness can occur after a grueling match.

When faced with a minor injury or pain, pickleballers can turn to Arnicare for relief. Scientifically formulated and powered by the Arnica montana flower, Arnicare helps relieve everyday muscle aches and pains* so players can continue to perform their best on and off the court.

The official homeopathic pain relief medicine of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championship, Arnicare has options for all stages of play and recovery. The gel and cream are unscented and non-greasy, so they are easy to apply on and off the court.

For stiff and painful overused muscles, try Arnicare Leg Cramps.* These chewable tablets can be taken during or after matches to address muscle cramps in the calves, legs, thighs, and arms.* When cramps disrupt rest, there is Arnicare Leg Cramps PM, providing nighttime cramp relief, plus a sleep aid help you to fall back asleep.* 

When pain strikes, don’t let it sideline your pickleball play; let Arnicare be your champion so you can enjoy your time on the court!

*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.