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Pickleball Injuries

Pickleball has taken the sports world by storm, offering players of all ages a fun and engaging way to stay active. Nearly 20 million participants picked up the sport in 2024, more than a 300% increase in the last three years. However, like any sport, it comes with the risk of injury. In 2022, there were approximately 19,000 pickleball-related injuries, with 91% affecting individuals aged 50 and older. These statistics highlight the importance of understanding sports injury prevention and treatment strategies to ensure players can continue enjoying the game safely.​

Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, understanding how chiropractic care can help treat and prevent common pickleball injuries is essential for staying on the court and playing at your best.

Common Pickleball Injuries

Pickleball involves quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and repetitive motions, making players susceptible to a variety of injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:

  • Sprains and Strains – Quick changes and pivots can lead to ligament sprains (especially in the ankles) and muscle strains, particularly in the legs and lower back.
  • Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) – The repetitive movements required for hitting the ball can cause overuse elbow injuries, much like in tennis.
  • Rotator Cuff Injuries – The overhead shots in pickleball can strain the shoulder muscles and tendons, leading to inflammation or tears.
  • Lower Back Pain – The combination of twisting, lunging, and bending places stress on the spine, which can lead to discomfort or even herniated discs.
  • Knee Injuries – Hard court surfaces and abrupt stopping can contribute to knee pain, including patellar tendinitis or meniscus tears.

How Pickleball Injuries Differ from Other Racquet Sports

Although pickleball shares similarities with tennis and badminton, the injuries players experience can be slightly different due to the sport’s unique characteristics:

  • Shorter Court & Faster Movements – The smaller playing area in a pickleball court means more sudden, explosive movements, increasing the risk of ankle and knee sprains.
  • Lighter Paddle & Lower-Impact Ball – While tennis players often suffer from wrist and elbow injuries due to the weight of the racket and ball impact, pickleball injuries tend to involve repetitive strain on the forearm and shoulder from prolonged play.
  • Less Overhead Stress – Compared to tennis, pickleball has fewer aggressive serves and smashes, slightly reducing the risk of severe shoulder injuries, though rotator cuff strains can still occur.

How Chiropractic Care Helps with Treatment & Prevention

Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal injuries, making them an excellent resource for pickleball players dealing with pain or stiffness. Here’s how chiropractic care can help:

  • Spinal Adjustments – Spinal misalignments can cause muscle imbalances, nerve irritation, and joint dysfunction. Chiropractic adjustments restore proper spinal alignment, improving movement and reducing pain.
  • Shockwave Therapy – This non-invasive treatment uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and improve mobility in common pickleball injuries like tennis elbow, rotator cuff strains, and chronic tendonitis.
  • Soft Tissue Therapy – Techniques like myofascial release, massage therapy, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) help reduce muscle tightness and promote blood flow and healing.
  • Joint Mobilization & Rehabilitation Exercises – Chiropractors work on increasing range of motion in injured areas and prescribe strengthening exercises to prevent future injuries.
  • Posture & Biomechanical Assessments – Poor movement mechanics can contribute to injuries. Chiropractors analyze your posture and form to make adjustments that improve efficiency and reduce strain.
  • Preventative Care & Flexibility Training – Regular chiropractic visits help maintain spinal health, improve flexibility, and prevent injuries before they occur.

Stay on the Court Longer with Chiropractic Care

Pickleball is an exciting, accessible sport, but injuries can sideline players if not properly managed. Chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive way to provide pain relief, recover from injuries, enhance performance, and prevent future issues. Whether you’re recovering from a strain or looking to stay in peak condition, chiropractic treatment can keep you playing pain-free and enjoying the game for years to come.

If you’re experiencing pain from pickleball, don’t wait—make an appointment with our chiropractors in Bend to get back to feeling and playing your best!