Stay in the Game:
Prevent & Recover from Pickleball Injuries
Pickleball is exploding in popularity – and so are the injuries. In fact, it’s now the number one reason for ER visits in our area.
But here’s the good news: most of these injuries are preventable, and if you’ve already been hurt, you’ve found the right place to get the expert care you need to recover and return stronger.
At RPM Physical Therapy, we believe in keeping you active, injury-free, and on the court doing what you love. But if a pickleball injury has already slowed you down, we’re here to help you bounce back quickly, safely, and stronger than before.
Common Pickleball Injuries We Treat
Pickleball may look low-impact, but fast pivots, quick reactions, and repetitive movements can take a toll.
Some of the most common injuries we see include:
- Ankle sprains and rolled ankles from quick direction changes
- Rotator cuff sprains from repeated overhead shots or serving
- Wrist and elbow pain (aka “pickleball elbow”
- Knee pain or meniscus irritation from bending, twisting, or awkward landings
- Achilles tendinitis from explosive starts and stops
- Lower back pain or tightness from rotating or reaching awkwardly
Whether you’re dealing with a nagging ache or a sudden injury mid-match, you’re not alone – and recovery is possible.
How To Prevent Pickleball Injuries
1. Warm up Properly
A quick five-minute warm-up with light cardio, dynamic stretches, and mobility drills can activate key muscle groups and reduce injury risk. We regularly speak and teach at pickleball clubs on the most comprehensive and short warm-up routines to keep players on the court
2. Train for Strength and Stability
Focusing on core, glute, and shoulder strength can help support your joints and absorb the impact of play.
3. Practice Good Footwork
Quick reactions and strong balance can prevent rolled ankles and reduce the risk of falls or overuse injuries.
4. Choose the Right Footwear
Court shoes with proper grip and ankle support can make a big difference in preventing slips or unstable movements.
5. Listen To Your Body
If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Rest when needed and don’t play through pain. Early soreness is your body’s warning sign.
We can also design a custom injury prevention program tailored to your body and play style to help you stay active long-term.
Injured? Get Expert Care Now
Already hurt because of pickleball? Here’s why RPM Physical Therapy is your go-to for pickleball recovery:
- One-on-one physical therapy sessions with movement specialists
- Advanced hands-on treatment techniques to reduce pain and inflammation
- Custom rehab plans that rebuild strength and prevent re-injury
- Education to help you understand your body and return to play safely
- Cutting edge technology to decrease inflammation, increase bloodflow, and activate stem-cells for fast healing.
Our goal isn’t just to get you pain-free – it’s to make you feel confident stepping back onto the court.
