Pickleball has taken the sports world by storm, offering a fun and competitive way to stay active at any age. However, with its growing popularity comes an increase in overuse injuries, particularly among recreational athletes who may not be accustomed to the quick bursts of movement and repetitive motions the game demands. At Bethesda Physiocare, we specialize in treating pickleball-related injuries using cutting-edge physical therapy techniques that help players recover quickly and return to the court stronger than before.
Common Pickleball Injuries
Due to the nature of the sport, pickleball players often experience overuse and acute injuries affecting the upper and lower body. Some of the most frequent injuries include:
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
The repeated swinging motion of a pickleball paddle can lead to inflammation and pain on the outer part of the elbow, commonly known as tennis elbow. This condition results from overuse of the forearm muscles and can make gripping and swinging the paddle painful.
Rotator Cuff-Related Pain
Frequent overhead shots and serve to place significant stress on the shoulder, potentially leading to rotator cuff irritation or impingement. Without proper strengthening and mobility exercises, this can progress to more severe shoulder dysfunction.
Ankle Sprains & Achilles Tendinitis
Quick lateral movements and sudden changes in direction make ankle sprains a common injury among pickleball players. A rolled or twisted ankle can result in ligament damage, swelling, and prolonged discomfort if not properly rehabilitated.
Knee Meniscal Injuries
The pivoting and lunging required in pickleball put a strain on the knee joint, increasing the risk of meniscal tears. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, limiting mobility and overall performance on the court.
Advanced Treatment Techniques at Bethesda Physiocare
Bethesda Physiocare utilizes state-of-the-art physical therapy techniques to effectively manage and treat pickleball injuries. Our highly skilled therapists employ the latest methods to optimize recovery and prevent future injuries.
Dry Needling
For conditions like tennis elbow and rotator cuff pain, dry needling is a highly effective treatment that targets trigger points in the muscles, reducing pain and improving function. This technique helps accelerate recovery by releasing tight muscle bands and enhancing blood flow to affected areas.
Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR)
BFR training is a cutting-edge method that allows athletes to build strength using lower resistance while promoting muscle growth and endurance. This technique is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from knee and ankle injuries, enabling them to regain function without excessive strain on healing tissues.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and myofascial release play a crucial role in restoring mobility and alleviating pain. These treatments are particularly effective for shoulder, elbow, and knee injuries, helping to improve range of motion and overall biomechanics.
State-of-the-Art Exercise Equipment
Bethesda Physiocare is one of the few clinics on the East Coast equipped with advanced rehabilitation technology like the Proteus and Oxefit machines. These tools allow for highly specific and controlled movement training, helping athletes return to sport with improved strength, coordination, and resilience.
Expertise You Can Trust
The team at Bethesda Physiocare is uniquely qualified to manage pickleball injuries due to our advanced orthopedic training and extensive experience working with high-level athletes. Our therapists have trained staff for NFL teams in the skill of dry needling and have worked with elite college and professional athletes to optimize their performance and recovery. This level of expertise ensures that every pickleball player, from weekend warriors to competitive athletes, receives the highest standard of care.
Whether you’re dealing with a nagging injury or looking to prevent one, Bethesda Physiocare is here to help. Our personalized approach to physical therapy ensures that you get back on the court feeling stronger and more resilient than ever. Schedule an appointment today at (301) 656-5613 and let us keep you in the game!
