Pickle ball is fast, social and easy to enjoy; but quick changes of direction, low reaches and repeated paddle swings can place unfamiliar demands on the body. A sore shoulder, calf or wrist does not always signal a serious injury, but pain that persists or changes how you move is worth paying attention to.
Why do pickle ball injuries happen?
A sudden increase in games, longer sessions or returning after a break can expose the body to more load than it is ready for. Quick pivots may challenge the ankles, knees and calves, while repeated gripping and swinging can irritate the forearm, elbow or shoulder. Falls can also cause wrist and other fractures. International emergency-department research has found strains, sprains and fractures among the most frequently reported pickle ball injuries.
“Why does my elbow hurt after pickle ball?”
Elbow pain may follow repeated gripping, backhand strokes, a change in paddle weight or a rapid increase in playing time. Different tissues can produce similar symptoms, so the location of pain alone does not always explain the cause. An assessment may consider your elbow, wrist, shoulder, neck, playing technique and recent activity levels.
“Can I keep playing pickle ball with an injury?”
It depends on the injury and how symptoms respond. Mild discomfort that settles quickly may allow you to continue with shorter sessions, lower intensity or temporary changes to aggravating shots.
Stop playing and seek medical assessment if you cannot bear weight, suspect a fracture or dislocation, have significant swelling or numbness, or develop symptoms after a head knock.
What may pickle ball injury treatment involve?
An osteopathic assessment looks at how the injury occurred, which movements provoke it, and factors such as joint mobility, strength and training load. Depending on the findings, pickle ball injury treatment may include:
- advice about modifying activity
- manual therapy to help manage pain or stiffness
- graded mobility and strengthening exercises
- a plan for returning to play
- referral to a GP or for imaging when appropriate.
No two pickle ball injuries are identical, and not every ache requires treatment. Management should reflect the nature of your injury, your health and your goals.
Ready for your next rally?
If symptoms are not settling, keep returning or are limiting everyday movement, our Osteopaths can assess your presentation at our Box Hill or Burwood East clinics and discuss suitable next steps.
N.B. This information is general and does not replace individual medical advice.
