Pickleball continues to be one of the fastest-growing sports, but many players are discovering that frequent play comes with a surprising amount of physical stress.
Most Pickleball Injuries Are Not Random
Many injuries stem from:
- Limited hip mobility
- Poor single-leg stability
- Weakness during lateral movement
- Sudden increases in playing volume
The sport requires constant acceleration, deceleration, rotation, and quick directional changes.
Common Pickleball Injuries
Tennis Elbow
Repetitive gripping and paddle swings place stress on the forearm tendons.
Achilles Tendinitis
Explosive starts and stops challenge the Achilles tendon.
Knee Pain
Frequent directional changes increase load on the knee.
Low Back Pain
Rotational demands often expose mobility and stability limitations.
Why Stretching Usually Doesn’t Fix The Problem
Most players focus exclusively on flexibility.
However, many recurring injuries are caused by:
- Strength deficits
- Poor movement mechanics
- Load management issues
Addressing these factors often provides more lasting relief.
How We Help Pickleball Players
At FRWD Sports Therapy, treatment may include:
- Movement assessment
- Soft tissue therapy
- Joint mobility work
- Dry needling when appropriate
- Strength and stability programming
The goal is not simply reducing pain but improving resilience on the court.
FAQs
What is the most common pickleball injury?
Elbow, Achilles, knee, and low back complaints are among the most common.
Should I stop playing if I have pain?
Not necessarily. Modifying workload while addressing the underlying issue is often effective.
Does age cause pickleball injuries?
Age may influence recovery, but strength, mobility, and training habits often matter more.
Can chiropractic care help pickleball injuries?
For certain mobility restrictions and musculoskeletal conditions, it can be a useful part of a comprehensive treatment plan.