Pickleball Injuries Are on the Rise - Here’s How Physical Therapy Can Help

Pickleball, the fast-growing sport that's capturing the attention of people of all ages, blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong into one highly addictive game. But with its increasing popularity comes a notable rise in related injuries—particularly among adults returning to activity or new to dynamic sports.

The good news is most pickleball related injuries are treatable and preventable with the right physical therapy approach. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, understanding common injuries and how to recover from them can help you stay in the game longer.

Most Common Pickleball Injuries

1. Shoulder Strains and Rotator Cuff Injuries

Reaching overhead to serve or smash can place significant stress on the shoulder—especially in players with poor mechanics or pre-existing shoulder weakness. Rotator cuff strains or tendonitis are common, resulting in pain and limited range of motion.

2. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Despite the name, tennis elbow is common in pickleball players due to repetitive paddle movements. It causes pain on the outside of the elbow and can interfere with gripping and swinging.

3. Wrist and Forearm Injuries

Quick wrist movements and awkward falls can lead to sprains or overuse injuries in the wrist and forearm, especially in players with limited paddle control or poor stroke technique.

4. Knee Pain and Meniscus Injuries

Frequent pivoting, squatting, and lateral movement may aggravate the knees. Middle-aged and older adults may be especially prone to meniscal irritation or degenerative joint pain during extended play.

5. Ankle Sprains

Unpredictable direction changes and fast-paced footwork can result in ankle sprains, especially on uneven surfaces or in players with poor balance or footwear.

6. Plantar Fasciitis and Foot Pain

Players who spend long hours on hard courts without proper foot support may develop plantar fasciitis—an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot.

7. Low Back Strain

Rotational forces during swinging and reaching, combined with extended time on your feet, can strain the lower back muscles or aggravate pre-existing spinal issues.

How Physical Therapy at Clifton Spine & Physical Therapy Can Help

Whether you’ve recently injured yourself on the court or want to prevent future problems, physical therapy is a game-changer for pickleball players.

At Clifton Spine & Physical Therapy, we offer personalized rehab and prevention programs designed specifically for active adults and athletes of all skill levels. Our experienced physical therapist Dr. Joelle Manganella is a specialist in sports injuries, helps you heal smarter and return stronger.

Treatment Strategies Include:

✅ Individualized Evaluation

We begin with a detailed assessment of your injury, posture, movement mechanics, and activity level to develop a custom treatment plan.

✅ Manual Therapy

Hands-on treatment such as joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and myofascial release reduces pain and restores mobility.

✅ Targeted Exercises

Strengthening the core, shoulders, hips, and lower extremities is key to preventing recurring injuries. Exercises are tailored to your pickleball-specific movement needs.

✅ Flexibility and Mobility Work

We address muscle imbalances and stiffness that may be limiting your motion, especially in the hamstrings, calves, and shoulders.

✅ Balance and Proprioception Training

Improving your reaction time and joint awareness can prevent falls and sprains on the court.

✅ Education and Movement Correction

We teach proper warm-up routines, paddle mechanics, and postural adjustments to reduce injury risk.

Why Choose Clifton Spine & Physical Therapy?

Located in Clifton, NJ, our clinic brings together chiropractic care, physical therapy, sports rehab, and advanced modalities under one roof. Whether you’re dealing with pain, recovering from an injury, or preparing to return to sport, our team is equipped to help.

• Expert Staff – Our licensed physical therapist Dr. Joelle Manganella specializes in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation.

• Comprehensive Care – We integrate treatments like spinal decompression, manual therapy, and functional movement training.

• Tailored Approach – Every patient receives a personalized plan based on their goals and level of play.

• Convenient Hours – Same-day appointments and flexible scheduling are available to fit your lifestyle.

Stay in the Game—Safely

Pickleball is fun, social, and a great workout but like any sport, it demands respect for your body. Don’t let pain keep you off the court.

If you’ve experienced a recent injury or are feeling nagging aches and pains from pickleball, contact Clifton Spine & Physical Therapy today to schedule your personalized evaluation.

164 Brighton Road, Clifton, NJ 07012
Call us at 973-874-0888 to book your appointment.

Clifton Spine & Physical Therapy – Helping pickleball players move better, recover faster, and play longer.