Mastering the Serve: Techniques to Elevate Your Game
Focused on serving strategies, this article breaks down various techniques to improve your serve in pickleball.
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10 Essential Tips for Beginner Pickleball Players
A beginner-friendly guide offering essential strategies and techniques to start your pickleball journey.
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Creating a Thriving Pickleball Community: Lessons from the Pros
Learn from experienced players on building connections and engaging with the local pickleball community.
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The Rise of Pickleball: Why Everyone is Talking About It
Explore the growing popularity of pickleball in 2024, its community impact, and what’s driving this trend.
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What is the most common pickleball injury and how to prevent it
by Luke Burton on
The most common injuries in pickleball are sprains or strains1. Fractures follow these, and then contusions or abrasions. The majority of these injuries, though, skew towards players over 50.
This is according to a study of 300 emergency room visits during 2001-2017 and published in the Journal of Emergency Medicine. Since the data was collected, the sport's popularity has grown significantly and the average of players significantly dropped.
Other Common Pickleball Injuries to Be Aware Of
While pickleball elbow is the most common, several other injuries can also impact players. Here are some of the other common issues to watch out for on the court:
Shoulder Strain and Rotator Cuff Injuries:
The repetitive swinging and overhead shots in pickleball can put significant strain on the shoulder muscles, especially the rotator cuff. This group of muscles and tendons helps stabilize the shoulder joint, but it can be susceptible to strain or even tears from overuse. Symptoms typically include pain in the shoulder, difficulty reaching overhead, and discomfort when lying on the affected side.
Ankle Sprains:
Pickleball involves a lot of quick lateral movements and direction changes, which can sometimes lead to ankle sprains. Stepping on an uneven surface or moving awkwardly can cause the ankle to roll, overstretching or even tearing the ligaments. Ankle sprains are painful and can lead to swelling, stiffness, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. Proper footwear and warming up thoroughly can help reduce this risk.
Knee Strains and Meniscus Tears:
The quick pivots and sudden stops in pickleball can put strain on the knees, especially if the player has weaker joint stability or a history of knee injuries. Over time, repetitive stress on the knee joint can lead to ligament strains or even meniscus tears. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee, often worsening with activity. Strengthening the muscles around the knee and using supportive footwear are crucial for preventing knee issues.
Lower Back Pain:
Lower back pain is a common complaint, especially among players who bend and twist frequently during games. This strain on the lower back muscles and spine can result from poor posture or insufficient core strength. Players may experience dull, achy pain in the lower back, which can intensify with prolonged play. Core exercises and stretching can help alleviate and prevent back pain.
Injury Prevention Tips for Pickleball Players
Preventing injuries in pickleball starts with a proper warm-up and good technique. Light jogging, dynamic stretching, and arm circles help prepare the body for quick movements, while correct swing mechanics reduce strain on the elbows and forearms. Beginners should consider lessons to learn effective techniques and prevent injuries like “pickleball elbow.”
Strengthening and stretching are also essential. Exercises targeting the forearms, shoulders, core, and legs enhance stability and support proper body mechanics. Using the right equipment, such as a comfortable paddle and supportive shoes, can further reduce strain.
Regular breaks, scheduled rest days, and listening to your body are vital for avoiding overuse and enjoying the game for longer.
Injury Insurance Offers Peace of Mind
Getting injury insurance from our partner Emerge offers peace of mind off and on the court. It is specifically designed for recreational athletes, including pickleball players.
Don't wait for an accident to realize the gap in your coverage. Protect yourself with accidental injury insurance from Emerge.
- Affordable – as low as $1 per day or less
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Pickleball Injury Prevention: Mastering Pain-Free Pickleball
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Master These 5 Pickleball Strategies to Play Like a Pro
Master These 5 Pickleball Strategies to Play Like a Pro
Do You Know Which Countries Have the Most Pickleball Players? | DUPR
by The Dink Media Team on
Today is World Pickleball Day, and what better way to celebrate than to discuss pickleball's rapid rise around the globe?
Pickleball was once considered a niche hobby in the United States but has now become a worldwide phenomenon.
Thanks to data provided by Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR), we now have a clearer picture of just how fast the sport is growing, where it’s flourishing, and which countries are embracing it with unmatched enthusiasm.
Approved 2025 USA Pickleball rules: The most important changes
USA Pickleball’s new rules for 2025 will be implemented in just a few short months (Jan. 1, 2025). So what are the approved USA Pickleball rules for 2025 and which ones will affect you most?
Here are just a few of the approved rules. You can read all the approved rule changes here.
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