Pickleball Injuries And How to Stay in the Game
Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in North America—and for good reason. It's fun, social, and accessible for players of all ages. But as participation increases, so do the number of injuries showing up in clinics.
As a physical therapist, I commonly see pickleball-related injuries that could have been prevented with proper preparation and recovery.
The Most Common Pickleball Injuries
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Despite the name, this injury is common in pickleball players. Repetitive gripping and swinging can irritate the tendons on the outside of the elbow, leading to pain and reduced strength.Rotator Cuff Strains
Frequent overhead shots and quick reaches can place stress on the shoulder, especially if mobility and strength are lacking.Achilles and Calf Injuries
Sudden starts, stops, and directional changes can overload the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, particularly in players returning after a long break.Knee Pain
Conditions such as patellar tendinopathy and arthritis flare-ups are common due to the repetitive squatting, pivoting, and lateral movements involved in the sport.
How to Reduce Your Risk
A few simple habits can dramatically lower your injury risk:
Warm up for 5–10 minutes before playing.
Improve hip, core, and shoulder strength.
Work on balance and agility training.
Gradually increase playing time and intensity.
Address minor aches before they become major injuries.
When to See a Clinician?
Pain that lasts more than a few days, limits your performance, or keeps returning is worth assessing. Early treatment often means a faster recovery and less time away from the court.
Here at 2 Align Health, I can identify your movement limitations, correct muscle imbalances, and create a personalized plan to help you play pain-free.
Stay Active, Stay Healthy
Pickleball is an excellent way to stay active and connected with your community. With the right approach to injury prevention, you can continue enjoying the game for years to come.
If you're dealing with pain during or after pickleball, don't wait until it sidelines you. A professional assessment at 2 Align Health can help you recover faster and return to the court with confidence.
