Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country—but with all that quick movement, pivoting, and fun comes a growing number of injuries and pain complaints, especially in adults 40 and older. At Total Recovery PT, we treat more and more players walking in with similar questions.
Below, we’re breaking down the most Googled pickleball-related concerns—and what you can do about them.
- Why does my elbow hurt after playing pickleball?
The #1 searched injury? Pickleball elbow—aka lateral epicondylitis. It’s an overuse injury caused by repetitive gripping and swinging. The tendons in your forearm get irritated, especially if your technique or paddle weight isn’t ideal.
What helps:
- Targeted physical therapy
- Forearm strengthening
- Neuromuscular re-education (like the Neubie)
- Shockwave therapy to reduce inflammation
- What shoes should I wear for pickleball?
Many players experience foot and heel pain due to poor footwear. Google trends show increasing searches for “best pickleball shoes for plantar fasciitis” or “pickleball shoes for knee pain.”
Pro tips:
- Look for shoes with lateral support (like tennis shoes)
- Avoid running shoes—they’re made for forward motion only
- Replace shoes every 6 months if you play regularly
- How do I warm up before playing pickleball?
This one is often overlooked—but skipping a warm-up is a top reason players get injured. Simple dynamic movements before hitting the court can protect your knees, shoulders, and back.
Try this quick warm-up:
- Arm circles + shoulder rolls
- Gentle lunges with a twist
- Ankle circles and toe walks
- Side steps or mini shuffles
- What’s the fastest way to recover from a pickleball injury?
We see everything from twisted knees to low back strains, but many players wait too long to seek help. That delay often leads to more downtime.
Our recovery approach at TRPT includes:
- Manual therapy to release tension
- The Neubie to retrain movement and reduce pain
- Shockwave therapy for chronic tendon issues
- A personalized plan to get you back on the court—fast
- Can physical therapy really help pickleball players?
Yes—whether you’re trying to prevent injury, improve mobility, or recover from pain, physical therapy plays a crucial role in keeping you in the game long-term.
At Total Recovery PT, we understand the demands of pickleball and offer free consultations for local players looking to stay active without pain.
Ready to stay strong, pain-free, and competitive?
Schedule your free injury screen with our team at Total Recovery PT in Little Falls, NJ.
Call 973-857-1616 or DM us “PICKLEBALL” on Instagram (@totalrecoverypt).
