Pickleball Injuries
Pickleball looks low-impact, but it actually causes a surprising number of injuries—mostly because of quick direction changes, repetitive arm use, and sudden bursts of movement. We have seen an influx of the number of patients in clinic presenting with pickleball injuries and have listed the common injuries below.
Common pickleball injuries:
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
Pain on the outside of the elbow from repetitive paddle swings.Rotator cuff strain
Shoulder pain or weakness from overhead shots.Achilles tendonitis
Tightness or pain at the back of the ankle from sudden starts/stops.Ankle sprains
Twisting your ankle while pivoting or reaching for a shot.Knee injuries (like meniscus irritation)
From lunging or quick lateral movements.Lower back strain
Bending, twisting, and poor posture during play.Wrist strains
From gripping the paddle tightly or repetitive flicks
How osteopaths treat these injuries
Our approach is hands-on and holistic. It’s not just about the injured spot—we look at how your whole body moves.
Your treatment will include:
Manual therapy (hands-on treatment)
Gentle joint movements and soft tissue work to reduce pain and improve mobility.Stretching and mobilization
To loosen tight muscles and improve range of motion.Muscle energy techniques
You actively contract muscles while they guide movement to reset joint function.Exercise rehab plans
Strengthening weak areas (like glutes, core, or shoulder stabilizers).Advice on activity modification
For example: adjusting your pickleball technique or warming up properly.
When to see an osteopath
Consider it if:
Your pain lasts more than a few days
You feel stiffness or reduced movement
You keep getting the same injury
You want to prevent injuries while staying active
Quick prevention tips for pickleball
Warm up properly (don’t skip this)
Use proper footwear with good grip - check with your podiatrist if you are not sure
Strengthen your core and legs