Pickleball and Tendinitis: How to Prevent and Treat Common Pickleball Injuries

Pickleball is booming in popularity across Canada — especially here in Richmond and Steveston. It’s fun, fast-paced, and a great way to stay active. But with more players joining the game, we’re seeing a rise in pickleball injuries, particularly tendinitis.

What Is Tendinitis?

Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon — the tissue that connects muscle to bone. In pickleball, tendinitis often results from repetitive motions like swinging the paddle or quick starts and stops on the court. Common areas affected include:

• Elbow – known as pickleball elbow or tennis elbow

• Shoulder – from overhead shots or poor form

• Wrist – especially in newer players

• Achilles tendon – due to sudden movements and lack of proper footwear

If you’ve noticed joint pain, stiffness, or swelling after a game, it could be early signs of tendinitis.

Why Is Pickleball Causing Injuries?

Many players jump into the game without proper conditioning or warm-up. Unlike other racquet sports, pickleball involves a lot of stop-and-go movements and wrist flicks that can strain your muscles and tendons — especially if you’re new to the sport or over 40. Without injury prevention strategies, overuse injuries can quickly develop.

Signs of Pickleball-Related Tendinitis:

• A dull ache during or after play

• Tenderness near the affected joint

• Swelling or warmth over the tendon

• Pain with movement or gripping

• Limited range of motion

5 Ways to Prevent Pickleball Injuries:

1. Warm Up Before You Play

Do dynamic stretches and light cardio to prepare your joints and muscles.

2. Improve Your Technique

Proper form reduces strain on tendons. Take a lesson if you are new to game and have a physiotherapist assess your mechanics and offer tips to protect your body.

3. Use the Right Gear

A properly weighted paddle and supportive shoes reduce the risk of injury, especially for the elbow and Achilles tendon.

4. Don’t Overdo It

Ease into the sport. Give your body time to adapt, especially if you’re playing multiple times per week.

5. Strengthen and Stretch Regularly

Targeted physiotherapy exercises for the shoulder, core, and forearm muscles can help prevent future flare-ups.

Already in Pain?

If you're already feeling sore or noticing early signs of tendinitis, early intervention is key. At Empower Physiotherapy, our team can help with:

• Manual therapy to reduce pain and inflammation

• Custom exercise programs for recovery and prevention

• Education on proper biomechanics and movement patterns

• Hand therapy for wrist and elbow injuries

Our goal is to keep you active and doing what you love — without pain.

Ready to Play Pain-Free?

Whether you’re just starting pickleball or playing competitively, we can help you prevent injuries, recover faster, and stay on the court. Book an appointment with our experienced Richmond physiotherapy team today.

Keep moving. Stay strong. Play smart.