Hello fellow Picklers,

As the weather warms up and spring blooms around us, many are eager to dust off their pickleball paddles and hit the courts. Pickleball is a fantastic sport for individuals of all ages, offering a fun way to stay active and socialize. However, returning to the court after a period of inactivity can put you at risk for certain injuries, especially if proper precautions aren't taken. Let's take a look at common upper body injuries in pickleball and how to prepare best to avoid them.

Understanding Common Injuries:

1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) affects the tendons on the outer side of your elbow, specifically the extensor tendon group. These tendons are responsible for extending the wrist and fingers. An overuse injury that can occur from repetitive motion, you may experience pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, weakened grip strength, and discomfort while performing activities that involve gripping or lifting.
2. Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow, known as the flexor tendon group. These tendons enable flexion of the wrist and fingers. An overuse injury, Golfer's elbow manifests as pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow, weakness in the affected arm, and discomfort when bending or lifting objects.
3. Shoulder Impingement is often caused by repetitive overhead activities like a confident overhead smash. Impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa become compressed between the bones in the shoulder. This compression can irritate the tendons and bursa, leading to inflammation, pain, and limited range of motion, making it difficult to play pickleball comfortably. You might experience pain and aching sensations in the shoulder, difficulty raising your arm overhead, and discomfort when reaching or throwing.

It's crucial to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. Pressure, Rest/Refer, ice, compression, and elevation (PRRICE) can be helpful in the immediate aftermath of an injury, but a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan from a healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist, are vital for a full recovery. (see more in our Acute Injury Management including PRRICE & Ice Application)

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TENNIS ELBOW STRAP ​See More →​

PAIN RELIEF CREAM ​See More →​

PRRICE HANDOUT ​See More →​

If you have any concerns or questions about these injuries or need assistance with a current condition, please don't hesitate to reach out. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Stay safe and happy playing!

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Melanie Tuck, Certified Athletic Therapist