Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports in Colorado—and for good reason. It’s social, accessible, and a great way to stay active. But as more players hit the courts, orthopedic specialists are seeing a rise in pickleball injuries, especially among recreational athletes eager to jump into the game.
At Orthopedic Centers of Colorado (OCC), we help athletes of all levels stay active and recover safely. Here’s what you need to know to avoid injury and keep playing all season long.
Why Pickleball Injuries Are Increasing
The biggest issue isn’t the sport itself—it’s how quickly people ramp up activity.
Many players go from low activity levels to high-intensity play without proper conditioning. Pickleball involves quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and repetitive motions, which can place stress on joints, muscles, and tendons.
Common causes include:
- “Weekend warrior” activity spikes
- Lack of warm-up or mobility work
- Poor footwear or court surface awareness
- Overuse without adequate recovery
Most Common Pickleball Injuries
OCC’s Orthopedic specialists frequently treat the following conditions related to pickleball:
Shoulder Injuries
Overhead serves and repetitive swings can lead to rotator cuff strain or tendon irritation.
Elbow Pain (“Pickleball Elbow”)
Similar to tennis elbow, repetitive motion can cause inflammation and pain on the outside of the elbow.
Knee Pain
Quick pivots and lateral movement can aggravate the knee joint, especially in players with underlying wear-and-tear.
Achilles Tendon Strain
Sudden acceleration and stopping can stress the Achilles tendon, increasing the risk of strain or rupture.
Ankle Sprains
Fast direction changes can lead to instability and rolling of the ankle.
How to Prevent Pickleball Injuries
The good news: most pickleball injuries are preventable with the right approach.
1. Warm Up Before You Play – Start with dynamic movements like leg swings, arm circles, and light jogging to prepare your body.
2. Build Strength and Mobility – Focus on core stability, leg strength, and shoulder mobility to support joint health.
3. Progress Gradually – Avoid jumping into long or intense matches too quickly. Increase your playing time over several weeks.
4. Wear Proper Footwear – Court-specific shoes provide better support and reduce the risk of slipping or ankle injury.
5. Listen to Your Body – Pain is a signal. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t push through it.
When Should You See a Specialist?
Not all soreness is normal. It may be time to seek care if you experience:
- Pain that lasts more than a few days
- Swelling or instability
- Limited range of motion
- Pain that worsens with activity
Early evaluation can prevent minor issues from becoming more serious injuries.
Stay Active with Expert Care
Orthopedic Centers of Colorado is proud to be rated #1 in Orthopedic Care in Colorado, with 38 Castle Connolly Top Doctors providing expert care across the Front Range.
From sports medicine and physical therapy to advanced imaging and non-surgical treatments, our integrated team helps you recover faster and return to the activities you love—safely and confidently.
Stay in the game. Schedule your appointment today.
