Your Pickleball Injury Guide
, by Tim Porter
At Orthout we carry trusted recovery and orthopedic products including the Matt Pat II Tendonitis Strap, M-Brace Epicondylitis Strap, Incrediwear Elbow Sleeve, Incrediwear Knee Sleeve, ASO Ankle Brace, and Stopain® Topical Pain Relief to help pickleball players stay active, recover smarter, and get back on the court with confidence.
Common Pickleball Injuries and How to Avoid Them
Pickleball has become one of America's favorite recreational sports, and it's easy to see why. It's fun, social, and provides an excellent workout for players of all ages. However, the quick starts and stops, repetitive paddle swings, and sudden changes in direction can also increase your risk of injury.
Whether you're new to the game or playing several times a week, understanding the most common pickleball injuries can help you stay healthy and on the court longer.
1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Despite its name, tennis elbow is one of the most common injuries seen in pickleball players. Repeated backhand shots and gripping the paddle too tightly can strain the tendons on the outside of the elbow, leading to pain and reduced grip strength.
How to Prevent It
- Warm up before every match.
- Strengthen your forearm muscles.
- Avoid gripping the paddle too tightly.
- Consider using a paddle with the proper grip size.
- Increase your playing time gradually.
Products That Can Help
Matt Pat II Tendonitis Strap
Designed to apply targeted pressure to the forearm extensor tendon, the Matt Pat II helps reduce strain during play while allowing continued activity.
M-Brace Epicondylitis Strap
The M-Brace provides adjustable compression that can help relieve discomfort associated with tennis elbow and golfer's elbow while maintaining full range of motion.
Incrediwear Elbow Sleeve
For players looking for all-day support, the Incrediwear Elbow Sleeve offers comfortable compression designed to support circulation and recovery while helping reduce post-match soreness.
2. Knee Pain
Quick lateral movements, lunges, and repeated squatting motions place considerable stress on the knees. Players commonly experience patellar tendon irritation, mild arthritis flare-ups, or general overuse soreness.
How to Prevent It
- Strengthen your quadriceps and glutes.
- Stretch your hamstrings and calves regularly.
- Avoid increasing court time too quickly.
- Wear supportive court shoes.
Product Spotlight
Incrediwear Knee Sleeve
The Incrediwear Knee Sleeve increases circulation with semi-conductor technology and provides comfortable support while helping players remain active. Many athletes use the knee sleeve or long leg sleeve during or after activity to manage soreness and support recovery between matches.
3. Ankle Sprains
Rapid changes in direction make ankle sprains one of the most frequent acute injuries in pickleball.
Prevention Tips
- Improve balance and stability with strengthening exercises.
- Replace worn-out court shoes.
- Avoid uneven playing surfaces.
- Return gradually after a previous ankle injury.
Product Spotlight
ASO Ankle Brace
Trusted by athletes and healthcare professionals alike, the ASO Ankle Brace provides excellent ankle stability without significantly limiting movement, making it a popular choice for players returning after an ankle sprain or looking for additional support during competition. The brace is super-thin, fitting inside even tight fitting court shoes and requires zero “break-in.”
4. Muscle Soreness and Overuse Injuries
Playing multiple matches in one day can leave muscles feeling stiff and fatigued. While soreness is common, ignoring it can lead to more significant injuries over time.
Recovery Matters
Proper recovery should include:
- Hydration
- Stretching
- Rest days
- Adequate sleep
- Gradual progression in activity
Product Spotlight
Stopain® Topical Pain Relief
Stopain can provide temporary relief of minor muscle and joint aches associated with exercise, arthritis, strains, and overuse. Applying a topical analgesic after play may help relieve discomfort so you're ready for your next match.
Additional Tips to Stay Injury-Free
Before stepping onto the court:
- Warm up for 5–10 minutes.
- Stretch your shoulders, forearms, calves, and hips.
- Stay hydrated.
- Replace shoes when the tread begins to wear.
- Listen to your body and don't ignore persistent pain.
- Build strength with resistance exercises two to three times each week.
Stay on the Court Longer
While no product can completely prevent injury, combining proper conditioning, smart training, and supportive equipment can help reduce your risk while improving comfort and confidence during play.
Whether you're dealing with tennis elbow, knee discomfort, ankle instability, or post-match soreness, choosing the right support can help you recover more comfortably and keep enjoying the sport you love.
At Orthout we carry trusted recovery and orthopedic products including the Matt Pat II Tendonitis Strap, M-Brace Epicondylitis Strap, Incrediwear Elbow Sleeve, Incrediwear Knee Sleeve, ASO Ankle Brace, and Stopain® Topical Pain Relief to help pickleball players stay active, recover smarter, and get back on the court with confidence.