The most common injury in pickleball is probably related to overuse and strain on the shoulder. The repetitive overhead swinging of serving and hitting the ball can place significant stress on the shoulder joint, muscles, and tendons. As a result, players can experience various shoulder-related injuries, including:
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis – Inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff muscles, which can cause pain and limited range of motion.
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome – Compression of the tendons and bursa in the shoulder due to repeated overhead movements, leading to pain and inflammation.
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) – Overuse of the forearm muscles can cause pain and inflammation on the outside of the elbow.
- Biceps Tendinitis – Irritation or inflammation of the biceps tendon, which connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder.
- Shoulder Strains or Tears – Overexertion or sudden movements can lead to strains or tears in the shoulder muscles.
- Shoulder Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursa sacs in the shoulder, often caused by repetitive overhead motions.
Apart from shoulder injuries, other common injuries in pickleball can include…
- Ankle Sprains – Quick changes in direction and lateral movements can increase the risk of ankle sprains.
- Knee Injuries – Sudden stops or pivoting movements can lead to knee injuries, such as sprains or strains.
- Wrist Strains or Tendinitis – Repetitive wrist movements during play can cause strains or tendinitis.
- Back Pain – Poor posture or repetitive twisting movements can lead to back pain or strain.
The risk of injury in pickleball can be reduced by using proper technique, warming up before playing, using appropriate footwear, and listening to your body’s cues to avoid overexertion. Regular strength and flexibility exercises can also help prevent injuries by improving overall conditioning and supporting joint health.
If you experience any pain or discomfort while playing pickleball, take a break and rest. Consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist if you have any concerns about injury prevention or need guidance on managing and recovering from pickleball-related injuries.
