Play Smart, Stay Strong

Zarah Anvery, DPT, OCS, MPH

Pickleball has become the fastest-growing sport in America — and for good reason. It’s fun, social, and accessible to players of all ages. But at Anvery Orthocare, we’ve seen firsthand how physically demanding the game can be, especially when athletes jump in without the right preparation.

In this post, we break down the movement demands of pickleball, the most common injuries we're treating, and how physical therapy can help you stay in the game — safely and pain-free.

Why Pickleball is More Demanding Than It Looks

Despite the smaller court and underhand serve, pickleball requires quick reflexes, explosive movements, and full-body coordination. Here’s what’s happening with your body when you play:

1. Start-Stop Movement

• Constant acceleration and deceleration strain the Achilles tendon, knees, quads, hamstrings, and ankles.

• Sudden stops and lunges create high joint loads in a short time.

2. Agility & Balance

• Lateral shuffles and fast pivots recruit hip stabilizers (glutes, adductors) and demand strong core activation.

• Ankle proprioception is key for preventing slips and falls.

3. Overhead and Rotational Strain

• Volleys, reaches, and directional changes require shoulder control, wrist stability, and torso rotation.

• These actions challenge the rotator cuff, thoracic spine, and grip strength.

4. Neuromuscular & Cardiovascular Stress

• Pickleball games may be short, but they spike the heart rate to 70–80% of max.

• Fast reaction times (<1 second at the net) make this a real test of coordination — especially for older adults or those returning from inactivity.

Pickleball Injuries Are on the Rise

According to national data:

• 22 million people will play pickleball this year.

• 67,000 ER visits, 366,000 outpatient visits, and 9,000 surgeries have already been linked to pickleball-related injuries.

• These injuries account for nearly $400 million in healthcare costs, projected to rise to $500 million next year.

At Anvery Orthocare, we’re seeing these trends reflected in our clinic:

Most Common Injuries Treated

• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)

• Achilles tendon tears/repairs

• Meniscus tears

• Ankle sprains

• Hip impingement

• Rotator cuff injuries

• Chronic low back pain

Preventive Physical Therapy: Your Competitive Advantage

Whether you're new to the game or a seasoned player, physical therapy helps you move with confidence, avoid injury, and recover stronger.

Don’t Let Pain Bench You — Let’s Get You Back on the Court

At Anvery Orthocare, we specialize in helping active adults and athletes recover from injuries, prevent future setbacks, and return to the activities they love — stronger and more resilient than before.

If you’re recovering from a pickleball injury or looking to prevent one, schedule an evaluation today. Your body and your game will thank you.

Contact Us