Pickleball has rapidly become one of the most popular sports in the United States, with millions of players nationwide and a growing number of courts springing up in communities across the country. This sport, which blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has captured the attention of people of all ages, driving a significant surge in participation and investment.

The rise of pickleball is not just a passing trend; it's a phenomenon that has seen professional leagues, substantial prize money, and major endorsement. With its easy-to-learn nature and strong social aspect, the sport has fostered a robust community and an increased demand for pickleball-specific sports medicine and physical therapy. As more people flock to this dynamic game, the need for specialized care to prevent and treat injuries and improve athletic performance has become paramount.

Justin Dages’s love affair with pickleball began about a year and a half ago, quickly becoming a significant part of his life. Playing in local tournaments, he mingled with fellow enthusiasts and professional players. Despite his impressive achievements and potential in pickleball, Dages has not pursued a full professional career due to his obligations as founder of Bolt Performance Therapy and a history of injuries.

In high school, Dages partially tore his ACL in his right knee. Dages would go on to play college baseball as a shortstop for Ohio Wesleyan University despite his knee issues. Unfortunately, in 2019, he fully tore the same ACL and partially tore the meniscus. Through diligent self-rehabilitation and staying up-to-date with new research, he managed to avoid surgery, living with a completely torn ACL while maintaining strength and stability. The meniscus issue, however, caused periodic flare-ups.

As fate would have it, Dages met Dr. Abhinav Gautam through a mutual friend at a pickleball game years late