Pickleball Injury Prevention and Pain Relief
Pickleball is fun, fast, social—and surprisingly demanding on the body. Repetitive swings, quick changes of direction, sudden stops, and long hours on the court can contribute to elbow pain, shoulder problems, back discomfort, knee pain, and Achilles tendon injuries.
The Pickleball Doc video series from Voyage Clinics offers practical, physician-led education to help pickleball players understand common injuries, improve the way they move, and spend more time enjoying the game.
Hosted by Dr. John Sanders, a board-certified family physician and pickleball enthusiast, this collection combines medical knowledge with a genuine understanding of the sport. Watch the playlist below for approachable guidance on preventing injuries, recognizing common problems, and knowing when pain deserves professional attention.
Learn How to Play Pickleball With Less Pain
Many pickleball injuries do not happen because of one dramatic accident. They develop gradually through repetitive movement, poor mechanics, insufficient strength, limited mobility, or increasing playing time too quickly.
The Pickleball Doc series explores common trouble spots and practical ways players can protect their bodies. Video topics include:
- Pickleball elbow and the repetitive movements that can aggravate it
- Shoulder impingement, shoulder mobility, and strengthening exercises
- Back pain caused or worsened by playing form
- Achilles tendonitis prevention
- Knee-strengthening techniques
- Movement and form adjustments for safer play
- Warmups, stretches, and injury-prevention habits
- Pickleball tips learned from working with experienced players
Whether you are new to the sport or play several times each week, these videos can help you become more aware of how your body responds on the court.
Common Pickleball Injuries
Pickleball Elbow
Often called tennis elbow, this condition can affect pickleball players because of repeated gripping and swinging. Players may experience tenderness or pain along the outside of the elbow, especially while holding a paddle, completing a backhand, or lifting everyday objects.
The Pickleball Doc videos explain common causes of elbow pain and introduce ways to reduce unnecessary strain. Persistent or worsening elbow pain should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional.
Shoulder Pain and Impingement
Reaching, serving, and hitting overhead shots repeatedly can place significant stress on the shoulder. Limited mobility, muscle imbalance, and poor positioning may increase discomfort.
In the playlist, Dr. Sanders discusses shoulder impingement and demonstrates exercises intended to support shoulder mobility and strength.
Back Pain
A low, bent-over ready position may help players react quickly, but holding or repeatedly returning to that position can aggravate the lower back. Small changes in posture, movement, strength, and court positioning may reduce unnecessary strain.
Achilles Tendon Pain
Explosive starts and abrupt changes in direction place considerable demand on the calf and Achilles tendon. Increasing activity too quickly or playing without adequate conditioning may contribute to irritation or injury.
Learn about practical habits that can help prepare the lower leg for the demands of pickleball.
Knee Pain
Knee pain is not necessarily an unavoidable part of getting older or staying active. Strength, mobility, workload, technique, and previous injuries can all affect how the knees respond on the court.
The Pickleball Doc series discusses strengthening and movement strategies that may help players protect their knees and remain active.
Meet the Pickleball Doc
Dr. John Sanders, D.O., is a board-certified family physician at Voyage Clinics with experience in family medicine, sports medicine, osteopathic care, dermatology, and holistic medicine.
He is also an enthusiastic pickleball player. That combination gives him a useful perspective: he understands both the medical concerns behind common sports injuries and the desire to recover safely without giving up an activity you enjoy.
From the Voyage Clinics office in Orem, Utah, Dr. Sanders and the care team help patients better understand their health, address injuries, and make informed decisions about returning to activity.
When Should a Pickleball Injury Be Evaluated?
General soreness after activity may improve with rest and a gradual return to play. However, consider seeking professional care when:
- Pain is severe, persistent, or progressively worsening
- You cannot comfortably bear weight or use the affected joint
- A joint feels unstable, locks, or repeatedly gives way
- You notice substantial swelling, bruising, weakness, or loss of motion
- You felt or heard a pop at the time of injury
- Pain repeatedly returns when you resume playing
- At-home measures are not producing improvement
- You are uncertain whether continuing to play is safe
A proper evaluation can help distinguish temporary soreness from an injury requiring a more individualized plan.
Keep Playing the Game You Love
Pickleball should help you stay active and connected—not leave you struggling with recurring pain. Explore the Pickleball Doc playlist to learn more about protecting commonly injured areas, strengthening your body, and developing safer playing habits.
If pain is keeping you off the court, the Voyage Clinics team can help you determine an appropriate next step.
Looking for personalized care in Orem or Utah County?
Contact Voyage Clinics to ask about an evaluation or learn how our direct primary care membership works.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common pickleball injuries?
Common problems include ankle sprains, Achilles tendon irritation, knee pain, lower-back pain, shoulder injuries, and lateral elbow pain commonly called tennis or pickleball elbow. The right response depends on the injury, its severity, and the individual player.
How can I reduce my risk of a pickleball injury?
A gradual increase in playing time, appropriate footwear, strength training, mobility work, recovery time, and good movement mechanics may help reduce risk. Players should also avoid continuing through significant or worsening pain.
Can a doctor help with pickleball pain?
A healthcare professional can evaluate the affected area, look for warning signs, and help determine whether imaging, rehabilitation, activity modification, medication, or another form of care may be appropriate.
Where is Voyage Clinics located?
Voyage Clinics is located at 532 E 800 N in Orem, Utah, serving individuals and families in Orem and surrounding Utah County communities.
Medical Disclaimer
These videos and this page are provided for general educational purposes only. They do not provide a diagnosis, individualized medical advice, or a treatment plan and should not replace an evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Consult an appropriate healthcare professional before beginning exercises or making decisions about an injury. Seek urgent medical attention for severe symptoms or a possible medical emergency.
