Understanding Common Pickleball Injuries: How to Stay Safe on the Court
Pickleball, the beloved hybrid of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has surged in popularity in recent years, captivating players of all ages with its easy-to-learn rules and engaging gameplay. While pickleball is often touted as a low-impact sport, it's not without its risks. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, it's essential to be aware of the potential for injury and take proactive steps to protect yourself on the court. In this blog post, we'll explore four common pickleball injuries and share tips on how to prevent them, so you can continue enjoying the game safely and confidently.
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries in pickleball and can occur when players land awkwardly or change direction suddenly without proper foot positioning. The dynamic movements and quick changes in direction inherent in pickleball make ankles particularly vulnerable to sprains. To reduce the risk of ankle sprains, players should invest in supportive footwear designed for court sports, warm up thoroughly before playing, and practice proper footwork technique to maintain stability during movement.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the tendons in the elbow, often resulting from the repetitive swinging motion involved in hitting the ball with the paddle. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, which can be exacerbated by continued play and overuse. To prevent tennis elbow, players should pay attention to paddle grip size and technique, incorporating wrist and forearm strengthening exercises into their fitness routine to reduce strain on the elbow joints.
Shoulder Impingement:
Shoulder impingement syndrome is another common injury among pickleball players, stemming from the overhead shots, serves, and repetitive swinging motions required in the game. This condition occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become irritated and inflamed, leading to pain and weakness in the shoulder, especially during overhead movements. To protect against shoulder impingement, players should focus on maintaining proper shoulder mechanics and incorporating shoulder strengthening and mobility exercises into their workout regimen to support joint stability , improve mobility, and prevent overuse injuries.
Knee Injuries
The fast-paced nature of pickleball can put significant stress on the knees, resulting in injuries such as patellar tendonitis or meniscus tears. These injuries often arise from sudden stops, pivots, or changes in direction on the court. To safeguard against knee injuries, players should perform regular strengthening exercises targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and stabilizing muscles around the knee joint. Additionally, wearing supportive knee braces can provide added protection and stability during play, particularly for those with a history of knee issues.
By understanding the risks associated with pickleball and implementing injury prevention strategies, players can enjoy the game safely and confidently, minimizing the likelihood of being sidelined by common injuries. Remember to listen to your body, prioritize proper technique and form, and seek medical attention if you experience persistent pain or discomfort. With a proactive approach to injury prevention, you can continue playing pickleball for years to come, reaping the physical and social benefits of this popular sport.
About Physiologic Physical Therapy
At Physiologic Physical Therapy, we offer evidence-based, specialized treatment for various conditions. If you are having recurrent pain, discomfort, or issues with specific body parts, talk to your doctor about seeing a physical therapist. We help guide our patients through their physical therapy journey. Learn more about the services we provide at Physiologic Physical Therapy clinic in Aledo, TX.
