The Most Common Pickleball Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Dr Aaron Lau, DC

Pickleball has exploded in popularity in recent years, especially among adults and seniors looking for a fun, social, and low-impact sport. But while it's easier on the body than tennis, pickleball isn’t injury-proof. In fact, as more people flock to the courts, we are seeing a rise in pickleball-related injuries and complaints.

Here are some examples of the most common ones:

1. Ankle Sprains

Quick lateral movements and sudden stops can lead to ankle twists and sprains. These are especially common when players wear improper shoes or play on uneven surfaces.

2. Pickleball Elbow

Similar to tennis elbow, this is an overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation around the outside of the elbow. It’s caused by repetitive strokes, particularly backhands with poor technique.

3. Rotator Cuff Injuries

Overhead smashes and serves can strain the shoulder, especially if the player lacks proper warm-up or has poor mobility. Rotator cuff tears or tendonitis are common in active older players.

4. Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon takes a beating during pickleball due to quick starts and stops. Overuse can lead to inflammation—or in severe cases—a tear.

5. Knee Strains and Meniscus Injuries

Fast direction changes, lunges, and pivots can stress the knees, leading to pain, swelling, or even cartilage damage.

How to Stay Injury-Free

●        Warm up before every game with light cardio and dynamic stretches.

●        Wear court shoes with good grip and lateral support.

●        Use proper technique—consider a lesson or two with a coach.

●        Don’t skip strength training, especially for your core, hips, and shoulders.

●        Rest and recover between games to avoid overuse.

Pickleball is a fantastic way to stay active—but like any sport, safety and preparation go a long way in keeping you on the court. If you’re experiencing or suffering from any of the above conditions, we can help ! Simply fill up the New Patient form here and we will get back to you within 24 hours for an appointment.