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.