Pickleball and Knee Pain: Identifying and Preventing Common Injuries on the Court
By Dr. William Sterett, Orthopedic Surgeon at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery
As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Vail, and Frisco, Colorado, I’ve watched the popularity of pickleball skyrocket in recent years, especially during the summer months. It’s fast-paced, easy to pick up, and fun for players of all ages. But along with the rapid rise in participation, I’ve also seen a sharp increase in one specific complaint: knee pain after pickleball.
While pickleball might seem low-impact, the quick movements, lunges, and lateral changes can lead to significant stress on the knees, especially if you’re returning to sports after time off or playing on hard surfaces.
The Most Common Pickleball Knee Injuries
If you’ve stepped off the court with aching knees, you’re not alone. As a sports doctor for pickleball injuries, I often treat patients with pain related to overuse or improper mechanics. Some of the most frequent pickleball knee injury diagnoses include:
Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee): Pain just below the kneecap, often from repeated jumping or forceful squatting.
Meniscus Tears: Caused by twisting motions, especially when the foot is planted but the knee rotates.
Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome): General pain around the kneecap from repeated impact or misalignment.
Bursitis: Inflammation in the knee's cushioning sacs, usually from kneeling or direct pressure.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just learning the ropes, it’s important to recognize the signs of a pickleball knee injury before it sidelines your summer fun.
What Causes Knee Pain After Pickleball?
Pickleball’s quick-stop, quick-start nature puts pressure on the knees in ways that many recreational athletes aren’t prepared for. Add in hard court surfaces, long matches, and limited warm-up, and you’ve got a recipe for discomfort, or worse.
Knee pain after pickleball can stem from:
Poor footwork or overreliance on knees for balance
Weak glutes or hips, forcing the knees to absorb excess load
Inadequate footwear lacking lateral support or cushioning
Tight hamstrings and quadriceps pulling the kneecap out of alignment
The good news? Most injuries can be prevented with the right preparation and training plan.
Tips to Prevent Pickleball Knee Injury
Here are five key ways to keep your knees healthy and stay on the court:
Strengthen Supporting Muscles: Build strength in the hips, quads, and hamstrings to reduce stress on the knee joint.
Warm Up and Cool Down: Dynamic stretches before and static stretches after play can make a big difference in joint resilience.
Focus on Footwork: Practice short steps and balance drills to avoid awkward landings and knee pivots.
Wear Court-Specific Shoes: Running shoes don’t cut it. Choose supportive court shoes that are designed for side-to-side movement.
Listen to Your Body: Knee pain is a signal, don’t ignore it. Early intervention can help you avoid more serious problems later.
A Patient’s Story
“I started playing pickleball a few months ago and loved it, until my right knee started swelling after every game. I saw Dr. Sterett, who diagnosed a meniscus issue and got me started with a treatment and strengthening plan. Thanks to his care, I’m back on the court pain-free.”
— Jen M., Edwards, CO
Find the Right Sports Doctor for Pickleball Injuries
Whether you’re feeling knee pain after pickleball or want to prevent your first pickleball knee injury, we’re here to help.
At Dr. Sterett’s practice, we treat athletes of all levels, from weekend warriors to seasoned competitors. If you’re looking for a sports doctor for pickleball injuries, request a consultation and get back to the game you love.
