Pickleball’s popularity is soaring, and for good reason. It’s a dynamic, engaging sport that offers a great workout and social interaction. However, like any sport, pickleball comes with its own set of injury risks. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, understanding these common injuries and how physical therapy can help is key to staying on the court and playing your best.
1. Shoulder Injuries
Rotator cuff strains and tendinitis often result from repetitive overhead motions, like serving or smashes. Physical therapy can help with managing and preventing shoulder injuries through targeted exercises that strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and improve shoulder stability. Therapists can also teach proper technique to reduce strain and recommend stretches to maintain flexibility.
2. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Despite its name, tennis elbow is also common in pickleball. It’s characterized by pain on the outer part of the elbow, usually due to repetitive stress and improper technique during shots. Physical therapists can provide treatment for tennis elbow by offering exercises that strengthen the forearm muscles and improve wrist stability. They can also use techniques like manual therapy and modalities such as ice or heat to reduce inflammation and pain.
3. Knee Injuries
The frequent stops and starts in pickleball put significant stress on the knees. Injuries such as patellar tendinitis and meniscus tears can occur due to sudden changes in direction, jumping, or landing. A physical therapist can help with strengthening the muscles around the knee to provide better support and reduce the risk of injury. They can also guide you through exercises to improve your balance and coordination, which can help prevent falls and twisting injuries.
4. Ankle Sprains
Quick lateral movements and frequent changes in direction can lead to stretching or tearing of the ligaments in the ankle. Your physical therapist can provide exercises to improve ankle strength and stability, as well proprioceptive training to enhance balance and coordination. This helps in reducing the likelihood of future sprains and speeds up recovery.
5. Lower Back Pain
The bending and twisting motions required in pickleball can cause lower back pain, especially if core strength is lacking or proper technique is not used. Therapists can address lower back pain by focusing on exercises to strengthen the core, which will support the spine and improve overall posture. They can also provide stretches and manual therapy to relieve pain and enhance mobility.
6. Muscle Strains
Muscle strains, particularly in the hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves, can occur due to sudden acceleration or deceleration and improper warm-ups. Physical therapists can design a comprehensive program that includes warm-up routines, stretching, and strengthening exercises to prevent muscle strains. They can also offer strategies for proper recovery and injury management if a strain occurs.
In addition to treating injuries, physical therapy emphasizes injury prevention. Therapists can educate players on proper techniques, warm-up routines, and exercises to maintain overall fitness.
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, or simply want to prevent injuries and improve your game, ACCESS PT is here to help. Our expert physical therapists offer personalized assessments and treatment plans to get you back on the court safely and effectively.
Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and start your journey towards better health. With the right care and guidance, you can enjoy the game you love without letting injuries hold you back!
