Despite Pickleball’s low-impact nature, it is not without risk of injury. Quick movements, sudden stops, and frequent hits with the racket can lead to sprains, dislocations, and even fractures. In this article, we will look at the most common Pickleball injuries and how to prevent them.

Common Injuries in Pickleball

Some of the most common injuries in Pickleball are related to the strain on the legs. Constant acceleration, sudden braking, and moving around the court can cause:

  • Muscle and ligament strains – in the lower leg, knee, and hip.
  • Achilles tendon ruptures – especially in older or undertrained players.
  • Knee ligament injuries (ACL) – can occur from improper movements or falls.

How to avoid? Regular warm-ups, strengthening your leg muscles, and using comfortable shoes with good cushioning can help reduce your risk.

Upper limb injuries

Because the game involves the active use of the hands, the wrists, elbows, and shoulders are put under considerable strain:

  • Tennis elbow (epicondylitis) – inflammation of the tendons of the elbow due to repetitive racket strokes.
  • Wrist and finger sprains – can occur when a ball is misplaced or due to improper racket grip.
  • Shoulder sprains – sudden movements and overhead strokes sometimes cause shoulder injuries.

How to avoid? Watch your hitting technique, strengthen your forearm and shoulder muscles, and don’t forget to take breaks from your game.

Head and Face Injuries

Although they are less common, being hit by a ball or colliding with a partner can lead to:

  • Concussion – when a ball falls or hits you in the head.
  • Eye damage – being hit by a ball can cause bruising, hematomas, or even more serious injuries.

How to avoid? Use protective eyewear and always stay alert on the court.

How to Minimize the Risk of Injury?

To minimize the risk of injury in Pickleball, it’s important to pay attention to physical fitness. Regular exercise will help develop flexibility, strength and endurance, as well as improve balance and coordination. This is especially important for sudden movements on the court and sudden changes of direction.

Don’t forget to warm up before a game. Light cardio exercises, joint rotations and stretching will prepare your muscles and ligaments for the strain. After the game, it’s good to warm up to reduce muscle tension and speed up recovery.

Proper equipment plays an important role in preventing injuries. Comfortable shoes with good ankle support and grip on the court surface can help avoid falls and sprains. A racquet with an appropriate grip size will reduce strain on the wrist and elbow. In some cases, additional protection such as knee pads, ankle brace,s and goggles will help minimize the risk of injury.

Proper nutrition also plays an important role. Drinking enough water before, during and after play will help avoid dehydration, and a balanced diet will provide muscles and joints with the nutrients they need.

Finally, it is important to listen to your body. If pain or discomfort occurs during a game, it’s best to pause. Ignoring the first signs of fatigue or pain can lead to serious injury and prolonged recovery.

Pickleball is an incredibly exciting sport, but even here there is a risk of injury. However, with proper preparation, sensible play, and mindfulness of your body, you can minimize the likelihood of injury. Warm up, train, choose quality equipment—and enjoy the game without pain or injury!