Pickleball has taken the country by storm. Once considered a niche activity, this paddle sport has exploded in popularity among all age groups, earning the title of the fastest-growing sport in America. Its appeal lies in its accessibility—pickleball is easy to learn, fun to play, and offers a great workout without the same level of intensity as tennis. But with its rapid rise comes an increase in sport-related injuries that players should be aware of.
At SF Custom Chiropractic, we’ve seen an uptick in patients who enjoy pickleball but have sustained injuries from overuse, falls, or repetitive motions. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned competitor, understanding the most common injuries can help you play smarter, recover faster, and stay on the court longer.
Why Pickleball Is So Popular
Pickleball blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played on a smaller court with a paddle and perforated plastic ball. Because of its smaller playing surface and slower ball speed, it feels more approachable than tennis while still offering a great cardiovascular and social activity. It’s also accessible to people of all ages, which is why communities and recreational centers across the country are adding pickleball courts at record speed.
Common Pickleball Injuries
Like any sport, pickleball carries its own set of injury risks. The most frequent issues we see include:
- Pickleball Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Similar to tennis elbow, this overuse injury stems from repetitive swinging motions, leading to inflammation and pain along the outside of the elbow.
- Shoulder Strains & Rotator Cuff Injuries: Overhead shots and serves can put strain on the shoulder muscles and tendons, especially in players who don’t regularly condition those areas.
- Ankle Sprains: Quick lateral movements and sudden stops often increase the risk of rolling or spraining the ankle.
- Knee Pain: Pivoting, squatting, and lunging can stress the knees, particularly for players with a history of joint issues.
- Lower Back Strain: Bending for low shots and sudden twisting motions can irritate the lower back muscles.
- Falls & Wrist Injuries: Because pickleball involves fast-paced volleys at the net, players sometimes lose balance and fall, leading to wrist fractures or sprains.
How to Prevent Pickleball Injuries
- Warm Up & Stretch: Take 5–10 minutes to increase blood flow and prepare your muscles before playing.
- Strengthen & Condition: Focus on shoulder, core, and leg strengthening to better support your movements.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Court shoes with lateral support reduce the risk of ankle injuries.
- Pace Yourself: Avoid playing for hours on end, especially if you’re new to the sport. Gradual conditioning is key.
- Use Proper Technique: Learning correct swinging and serving mechanics can prevent elbow and shoulder strain.
- Recover Smart: If you feel pain or soreness, rest, ice, and gentle stretching can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Pickleball Players
At SF Custom Chiropractic, we specialize in helping athletes of all levels recover from injuries and improve performance. Chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and personalized rehab exercises can:
- Restore proper joint mobility
- Relieve pain and inflammation
- Improve balance and flexibility
- Speed up recovery after injuries
- Prevent recurring strain through corrective care
Whether you’re just picking up the paddle or playing in competitive tournaments, chiropractic care can help you stay in the game and enjoy all the benefits of this fun, community-driven sport.
Final Thoughts
Pickleball is more than just a trend—it’s a movement bringing people together, promoting fitness, and creating new communities nationwide. But as participation grows, so does the risk of injury. By understanding common issues and taking preventive measures, you can keep your body resilient and ready for play.