Pickleball: Fun, Fast-Growing… and dTough on Your Body
Pickleball has exploded in popularity over the last few years, and Santa Barbara is no exception. From local courts filled morning and evening to community leagues and tournaments, more people than ever are picking up a paddle. The game is fast, social, and easier to learn than tennis—making it especially appealing to players of all ages.
But like any sport, pickleball comes with its fair share of aches, pains, and injuries. At SB Physio, we’ve noticed more and more patients walking through our doors with pickleball-related issues.
Common Pickleball Injuries
While pickleball is low-impact compared to running or basketball, the quick changes in direction, overhead swings, and repetitive movements can take a toll. Some of the most common injuries we see include:
Pickleball elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Similar to tennis elbow, caused by repetitive paddle swings.
Shoulder pain: Especially from overhead serves and smashes.
Knee strains: From quick pivots and stops on hard courts.
Ankle sprains: One wrong step chasing a drop shot can roll an ankle.
Lower back pain: Twisting and bending during play often aggravates old issues.
How to Prevent Pickleball Injuries
The good news is most of these problems are preventable. A few key tips:
Warm up before you play. A few minutes of light jogging, lunges, and arm swings can wake up your muscles and joints.
Strengthen key areas. Focus on shoulder stability, core strength, and leg endurance.
Work on mobility. Pickleball requires rotation and reach. Stretch your hips, hamstrings, and shoulders regularly.
Choose good footwear. Court shoes with strong lateral support reduce ankle and knee injuries.
Don’t overdo it. Many new players play multiple hours a day—listen to your body and rest when needed.
How SB Physio Can Help
Whether you’re a beginner looking to stay healthy or a seasoned player struggling with a nagging injury, our team at SB Physio is here to help. We offer:
Sports injury treatment and recovery for pickleball-specific injuries.
Performance-based physical therapy to improve strength, balance, and agility.
SB Physio Recovery Room services like NormaTec, PEMF, and Game Ready therapy to help you recover faster between matches.
BalanceStrong classes for players looking to improve stability and reduce fall risk on the court.
Our goal is to keep you playing longer, stronger, and pain-free.
Ready to Step Up Your Game?
If pickleball is your new favorite pastime, make sure your body can keep up with the demands of the sport. Whether you need rehab, recovery, or performance training, SB Physio can help.
👉 Request an Appointment or stop by to learn more about how we can support your pickleball journey.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not replace consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Results may vary. Always use caution when performing new exercises or wellness routines, and seek guidance from a physical therapist or qualified medical professional for individualized recommendations.
