Common Orthopedic Injuries We See in Pickleball, Golf & Tennis
Staying Active Comes with Risk: The Rise of Orthopedic Injuries in Pickleball, Golf, and Tennis
With the growing popularity of low-impact sports like pickleball, golf, and tennis, more people are staying active — and that’s a great thing. But with this rise in recreational play comes an increase in sports-related orthopedic injuries. At Anchor Spine & Joint, we frequently treat patients who experience joint, tendon, and spinal pain caused by overuse, improper form, or sudden movement on the court or course.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common orthopedic injuries seen in these sports and how you can stay pain-free while enjoying the activities you love.
1. Pickleball Injuries
Pickleball has exploded in popularity, especially among adults over 40. While it’s easy on the joints compared to high-impact sports, it still poses a risk for several orthopedic issues.
Common Pickleball Injuries:
- Rotator Cuff Strains: Overhead shots can strain or tear the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder.
- Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): Ironically common in pickleball too, this overuse injury causes inflammation around the elbow.
- Ankle Sprains: Quick direction changes on the court make rolled ankles a frequent concern.
- Meniscus Tears: Twisting movements can damage the knee’s cartilage, especially in aging athletes.
Prevention Tips:
Warm up properly, wear court shoes with ankle support, and avoid playing on hard surfaces for extended periods.
2. Golf Injuries
Golf might look low-risk, but repeated swings and improper mechanics can place strain on multiple joints.
Common Golf Injuries:
- Low Back Pain: One of the most reported complaints due to rotational forces during the swing.
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Pain on the inner part of the elbow from repetitive gripping and swinging.
- Shoulder Impingement: Repeated arm movement can compress soft tissues in the shoulder joint.
Prevention Tips:
Invest in proper swing mechanics, strengthen your core, and consider physical therapy to maintain flexibility and posture.
3. Tennis Injuries
Whether you’re a casual weekend player or a seasoned athlete, tennis demands agility, speed, and coordination — which can lead to injury if your body isn’t prepared.
Common Tennis Injuries:
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Classic overuse injury from repeated backhand strokes.
- Knee Tendinitis: Jumping and quick stops can inflame the patellar tendon.
- Shoulder Tendonitis: Serving and overhead movements put stress on the shoulder joint.
Prevention Tips:
Cross-train with strengthening exercises, use proper technique, and stay hydrated to prevent fatigue-related injuries.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
If you’re experiencing lingering pain, swelling, or limited range of motion after playing pickleball, golf, or tennis — don’t ignore it. Early intervention can prevent minor injuries from turning into chronic problems.
At Anchor Spine & Joint, our multidisciplinary team offers:
- Advanced diagnostic imaging
- Physical therapy and rehab programs
- Non-surgical pain management options
- Orthopedic and spine care tailored to your sport
Ready to Get Back in the Game — Pain-Free?
Whether you’re dealing with tennis elbow or chronic back pain after a round of golf, our experienced team is here to help. Let us design a treatment plan that gets you moving again — safely and confidently.
📍 Serving 5 locations in the Greater Tampa Bay area
📞 Call us today at (813) 859-7246 or visit www.anchorspineandjoint.com to schedule your consultation.
