How to Protect Your Vision While Playing Pickleball in Santa Rosa, CA

Man holding pickleball Pickleball is fun, fast-paced, and growing in popularity across Santa Rosa and Sonoma County. But with its rise, eye doctors are seeing more injuries caused by stray balls and accidental paddle contact.

At Eye Care Institute, our board-certified ophthalmologists and experienced optometrist want to help you protect your vision, especially if you want to keep enjoying the activities you love. A comprehensive eye exam allows our team to check for signs of trauma and explore treatment options or recommend protective gear for when you’re on the court.

Common Pickleball Eye Injuries

It only takes a split second for a ball to strike the eye, and unfortunately, those hits can cause serious damage.

Some of the most common injuries include:

Corneal abrasions
Bruising around the eye
Retinal tears
Internal bleeding (in severe cases)
Orbital fractures after close-range impact

Even when the eye looks fine on the surface, damage can occur inside. That’s why any eye injury should be checked by an eye care professional right away.

Preventing Injuries With the Right Protection

The best way to prevent a pickleball-related eye injury is to wear protective eyewear. Glasses made for racquet sports offer high-impact resistance without compromising your vision on the court.

We can help you find sport-specific eyewear that fits well and doesn’t interfere with your game. Regular eye exams also help us spot early changes or damage before it becomes a bigger problem.

What to Do If You Get Hit in the Eye While Playing Pickleball

If you take a hit to the eye during a game, stop playing immediately. Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to take it seriously. Vision changes, pain, or swelling could be signs of internal damage that needs attention.

Apply a cold compress gently to reduce swelling, but avoid pressing on the eye. Do not take aspirin, as it can increase bleeding.

If you experience blurry vision, light sensitivity, floaters, or persistent pain, call an eye doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms could point to more serious problems like a retinal tear or internal bleeding.

How the Eye Care Institute Can Help

Your vision matters, and our experienced eye doctors are here to help you see the very best that you can. Call 707-546-9800 to schedule an appointment with one of our eye care professionals today.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult your PCP or eye doctor before starting any new therapies. To schedule a consultation, please contact us.