What is Pickleball Elbow & Common Reasons for It – A Physical Therapist’s Perspective

Pickleball, the rapidly growing sport that cleverly combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has swept across communities, offering fun, competition, and physical activity to participants of all ages.

However, with the rise in its popularity, there’s been an uptick in a specific type of injury colloquially known as “pickleball elbow.” This term might sound unique to the sport, but it shares a striking resemblance with the well-known “tennis elbow.”

In this blog post, we will dive deep into what pickleball elbow entails, the common reasons behind its occurrence, and preventative measures from a physical therapist’s perspective.

While the terms tennis and golfer’s elbow have been around for decades, “pickleball elbow” is increasingly used to describe this injury among pickleball players.

Many pickleball enthusiasts are casual players who may not have formal training in racket sports. Without proper technique, the stress on the elbow during swings increases, exacerbating the risk of injury. For example, consistently hitting the ball with the tip of the paddle or using a wristy swing can put undue pressure on the elbow tendons.

Jumping into an intense game of pickleball without adequate muscle conditioning or without properly warming up can shock the muscles and tendons, making them more susceptible to injuries. Regular strength and flexibility training for the forearm, arm, and shoulder muscles can help prevent pickleball elbow.

The first step in dealing with pickleball elbow is recognizing the symptoms early and giving your body adequate rest. Continuing to play through pain can exacerbate the injury, leading to a longer recovery period.

Consulting with a coach to adjust and improve your playing technique can significantly reduce the stress on your elbow. Focus on using your shoulder and core muscles more effectively to take the load off your forearm and elbow.

Incorporating exercises that build strength and flexibility in your forearm, arm, and shoulder muscles can fortify your body against the strain of playing. A physical therapist can design a tailored exercise program that addresses your specific needs.

Physical therapy treatments such as manual therapy, ice or heat therapy, and therapeutic exercises can be highly effective in managing and recovering from pickleball elbow. Techniques like ultrasound or electrical stimulation may also be utilized to promote healing.

Finally, it’s not just the on-court activities that matter. Off-court lifestyle and ergonomic adjustments, such as minimizing repetitive arm motions and ensuring proper posture while performing daily activities, can play a crucial role in prevention and recovery.

Pickleball elbow, while a common issue among players, can be effectively managed and prevented with the right approach. Understanding the causes and adopting a comprehensive strategy that includes proper technique, appropriate equipment, conditioning, and therapeutic interventions can help keep you on the court and out of the clinic. Remember, listening to your body and seeking early intervention from professionals like physical therapists can make all the difference in ensuring a swift and successful recovery. Let’s keep enjoying pickleball, but let’s do it wisely and safely. At Back in Motion Physical Therapy & Performance, our sport injuries treatment in Fort Myers can help you overcome your pickleball elbow is no time. Reach out today!