What Every Player Should Know About Overuse Injuries
Pickleball has taken the country—and central Ohio—by storm. With courts popping up everywhere and players of all ages jumping into the game, it’s no surprise that we’re seeing a spike in wrist and elbow injuries tied to this fast-paced sport.
At Hand & Microsurgery Associates, we treat a growing number of patients with pain that stems from pickleball-related strain. If you’re feeling soreness in your wrist, forearm, or elbow that just won’t go away, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to power through it.
Why Pickleball Hurts
Unlike tennis, pickleball paddles don’t have strings to absorb shock. That means more vibration transfers to your wrist and forearm, especially during repetitive motions like serves, volleys, and dinks. Combine that with players who are active 3-4 times a week—and often new to racquet sports—and you have the perfect recipe for overuse injuries.
Common injuries we treat include:
- Wrist tendinitis
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis (thumb tendon inflammation)
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- TFCC tears (wrist cartilage damage)
- Carpal tunnel flare-ups
When to See a Specialist
If pain is persistent, interfering with your grip, or causing swelling or numbness, it’s time to get evaluated. Catching these issues early can make a big difference in recovery and help you avoid longer-term damage.
Treatment Options: Surgical and Non-Surgical
Most pickleball-related injuries can be treated without surgery. Depending on your condition, we may recommend:
- Custom splinting or bracing
- Anti-inflammatory therapy
- Cortisone injections
- Hand therapy and strengthening exercises
- Activity modifications (yes, even changing your grip or paddle)
In more advanced or chronic cases, surgical solutions may be discussed to repair damaged tendons or ligaments and get you back on the court, pain-free.
Your Hand, Wrist & Elbow Experts
At Hand & Microsurgery Associates, we specialize in conditions of the upper extremity—whether you’re recovering from injury or trying to prevent one. If your love for pickleball is starting to take a toll, our team is here to help you heal, recover, and play smarter.
Ready to Get Back in the Game?
Schedule a consultation today and let’s keep your wrist in winning shape.
https://www.handandmicro.com/request-appointment/