Pickleball Pains? Here’s How to Play Stronger and Stay Injury-Free

Pickleball has exploded in popularity—and for good reason. It’s fast-paced, fun, and a fantastic way to stay active. But as with any sport, increased play comes with a higher risk of injury—especially if you’re jumping into it without proper preparation.

At PhysioHealth PT, we’ve been seeing more patients with injuries directly tied to pickleball. Whether it’s shoulder discomfort, knee pain, or foot issues, many of these are preventable with a little body awareness and support.

Common Pickleball-Related Injuries We See:

  • Rotator Cuff Strains: Quick swings and overhead smashes can overload the shoulder if mobility or strength is limited.

  • Elbow Tendonitis (aka “Pickleball Elbow”): Similar to tennis elbow, repetitive paddle swings can irritate the tendons.

  • Knee and Hip Strains: Sudden direction changes on the court can stress lower-body joints—especially if you lack hip stability or balance.

  • Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles Issues: Hard court surfaces and poor foot support can lead to foot and ankle problems.

  • Lower Back Tightness: Reaching, bending, and twisting can overload your spine if your core isn’t engaged properly.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

We don’t just help you recover—we help you play smarter, move better, and stay in the game. Here’s how:

  • Functional Movement Assessments: Identify imbalances and movement inefficiencies before they lead to injury.

  • Strength + Mobility Work: Improve your body’s resilience and reaction time—especially in shoulders, hips, and core.

  • Targeted Treatment Plans: Rehab specific pain points with hands-on care and customized exercises.

  • Prevention Education: Learn how to warm up, cool down, and recover like an athlete.

Don’t Wait for Injury to Strike

Whether you’re playing pickleball for competition or community, your body deserves the right support. If you’re already dealing with pain—or want to be proactive—now’s the time to act.

Call us at (781) 859-4189 or request an appointment online to stay in the game all season long.