Preventing Pickleball Injuries
Pickleball is booming across Palm Beach and Broward Counties, especially among adults aged 45 and older in communities like Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Lake Worth, Lantana, Wellington, Jupiter, and Palm Beach Gardens. Its social, low-impact nature makes it a favorite for active adults—but the quick movements and repetitive motions can lead to injuries without proper preparation. At Florida OrthoCare, we treat many patients with pickleball-related orthopedic issues that could be prevented with the right techniques and care.
Common Pickleball Injuries We Treat at Florida OrthoCare
Pickleball can take a toll on the body—especially for older adults who may already be managing joint stiffness or past injuries.
The most common orthopedic injuries related to pickleball include:
- Rotator cuff strains and shoulder impingement
- Achilles tendonitis and ankle sprains
- Knee injuries like meniscus tears and ligament sprains
- Hamstring strains from sudden lunges
- Lower back pain from improper bending or twisting
- These injuries often result from sudden stops, quick changes in direction, and overuse. If not treated early, they can lead to chronic pain or long-term mobility issues.
How to Prevent Pickleball Injuries: Tips for Adults Over 45
Proper stretching before and after play is key to preventing injuries on the court. Adults over 45 should focus on dynamic warm-ups such as:
- Arm circles and shoulder rolls
- Walking lunges and leg swings
- Light jogging or side shuffles
- After playing, shift to static stretches that target your hamstrings, quads, calves, shoulders, and lower back. These help reduce muscle stiffness and support quicker recovery. Stretching is especially important in Florida’s warm, humid climate, where dehydration and muscle fatigue can set in faster.
Orthopedic Injury Prevention for Pickleball Players in Florida
Beyond stretching, injury prevention also includes:
- Wearing court-specific shoes with proper grip and ankle support
- Strength training to improve core and lower-body stability
- Learning safe techniques for bending, pivoting, and reaching
- Taking rest days to allow muscles and joints to recover
- At Florida OrthoCare, we also recommend that older adults engage in cross-training activities like swimming, cycling, or yoga to improve flexibility and reduce joint strain over time.
Florida OrthoCare: Your Partner in Pickleball Injury Recovery
If you’re experiencing pain after pickleball—don’t wait. Early evaluation by an orthopedic specialist can prevent a minor issue from becoming a major setback. At Florida OrthoCare, our experienced team offers personalized treatment plans that may include:
- Physical therapy
- Non-surgical orthopedic care
- Joint injections – regenerative medicine
- Minimally invasive procedures
We proudly serve patients in Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Wellington, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking to recover from an injury or prevent future ones, Florida OrthoCare is here to help you stay active, mobile, and pain-free.
