With longer days and warmer weather, pickleball courts everywhere are buzzing, including the pickleball courts at Wollman Rink. While the sport is accessible and fun, it’s important to understand the common aches and pains that come with it and how to prevent pickleball injuries from serve to celebration.
Common Pickleball Injuries
1. “Pickleball Elbow”
Overuse of the forearm during backhand strokes can lead to tendon micro-tears and inflammation.
2. Wrist Sprains & Fractures
Falling forward and instinctively catching yourself can cause sprains—or worse, fractures.
3. Rotator Cuff Strains & Shoulder Pain
Repeated overhead shots or smashes can overwork the shoulder muscles and tendons.
4. Ankle Sprains & Achilles Injuries
Quick lateral moves can often cause sprains, strains, or even tendon ruptures.
5. Lower-Body Strains (Calf, Hamstring, Back)
Sudden lunges or pivots can strain muscles in the legs and back.
6. Fractures
Wrists, hands, and hips are especially vulnerable if you fall during your game or at practice.
7. Tendonitis & Overuse Pickleball Injuries
Chronic pain from repetitive movement often affects joints and tendons, especially in the feet, knees, and elbows.
Prevent Injuries: Play Smart, Stay Strong
Warm-Up & Stretch
Start with 5–10 minutes of light cardio and dynamic stretches, focusing on the shoulders, calves, and forearms.
Use the Right Equipment
Choose a lightweight paddle with a cushioned grip and wear proper court shoes to protect your feet and joints.
Build Strength & Stability
Strengthen the core, shoulders, and lower legs to improve mobility and reduce your risk of injury.
Hydrate & Rest
Stay hydrated and avoid overplaying. As with any sport, your body needs time to recover between sessions.
Watch Your Footwork
Use proper technique when chasing down shots. Avoid backpedaling and keep your knees slightly bent.
When Injuries Happen: What to Do
For Acute Pickleball Injuries
Apply the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and seek medical evaluation if you experience severe pain, swelling, or instability.
For Overuse Pickleball Injuries
Take a break, use supportive braces if necessary, and consider seeking a professional medical evaluation if symptoms persist.
Know When to Seek Help
Persistent pain, limited range of motion, or any injury that doesn’t improve within a few days should be seen by a specialist.
Pickleball season brings fun, fitness, and community, but injuries can derail your fun if you’re not prepared. Warm up properly, use the right gear, train smart, pace yourself, and strengthen key muscle groups to stay in the game.
If injury strikes, respond early with RICE, rest, and professional care. If you need expert orthopedic care? Schedule an appointment with our team at OrthoManhattan and get back on the court with confidence.