Pickleball is everywhere these days! With its fast-paced action and growing popularity, more players are hitting the courts than ever before. Here in Eugene, Oregon, local parks and community centers are buzzing with the sound of paddles smacking balls, and it's no wonder—pickleball combines the best of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong into an addictive, social sport that's accessible for all ages.
But as your friendly neighborhood Eugene chiropractor at Back2Strength, we've noticed something else on the rise alongside the fun: injuries. Whether you're a weekend warrior dinking at the net or a competitive player chasing that perfect lob, the quick lateral movements and repetitive swings can take a toll on your body. According to a recent study, pickleball-related injuries presenting to U.S. emergency departments skyrocketed from just over 1,300 in 2014 to nearly 25,000 in 2023, with the majority affecting adults over 60. Common trouble spots? Knees, shoulders, and wrists—exactly the areas that see the most strain from falls, overexertion, and sudden twists.
Don't let pain or injury keep you off the court! As a dedicated Eugene chiropractor, the team at Back2Strength is here to help you bounce back stronger. In this post, we'll dive into why pickleball injuries are surging, share expert prevention tips to keep you safe, and explain how our chiropractic care can optimize your performance. Plus, we've got an handy infographic to download for quick reference.
The Pickleball Injury Boom: What the Data Says
Pickleball's appeal lies in its low barrier to entry—no massive court or fancy equipment required. But that ease can lead to overuse if you're not careful. The July 2025 study in The Physician and Sportsmedicine by Kulkarni et al. highlights some eye-opening stats: Over the past decade, more than 100,000 pickleball injuries landed folks in the ER, with strains and sprains making up nearly a quarter of cases. Fractures were close behind at 26%, often from falls—the leading mechanism at 51% of incidents.
Breaking it down by body part:
- Lower extremities (like knees and ankles): 20% of injuries, especially from quick stops and starts.
- Upper extremities (shoulders and arms): 13%, thanks to those powerful overhead smashes.
- Wrists and hands: 15%, from gripping the paddle too tightly or awkward blocks.
And age plays a big role—73% of injuries hit players 60 and older, who are more prone to falls and fractures. But don't worry, Eugene pickleball enthusiasts of all ages: Prevention is key, and it's easier than you think.
7 Essential Pickleball Injury Prevention Tips from Back2Strength
At Back2Strength, we believe in proactive care to relieve pain, restore strength, and get you back to what you love—without downtime. Drawing from sports medicine experts and our own experience treating active locals, here are seven game-changing tips to safeguard your knees, shoulders, and wrists:
- Warm Up Like a Pro: Spend 5-10 minutes on dynamic stretches—arm circles, leg swings, and light jogging. This boosts blood flow and preps your joints for action, reducing strain risk by up to 30%.
- Ease Into the Intensity: If you're new to pickleball or returning from a break, start with shorter sessions (20-30 minutes) and build up gradually. Overexertion causes 42% of injuries, so listen to your body and take breaks every 15-20 minutes.
- Gear Up Right: Invest in court-specific shoes with good lateral support to prevent ankle rolls, and choose a paddle with the proper grip size to avoid wrist fatigue. As your Eugene chiropractor, we recommend getting fitted at a local sports shop.
- Master Your Technique: Take a lesson from a certified coach to learn proper form—keep your knees bent, core engaged, and swings controlled. Poor mechanics are a sneaky culprit for shoulder and elbow issues.
- Build Balance and Strength Off the Court: Cross-train with yoga, swimming, or resistance bands 2-3 times a week. Focus on balance exercises like single-leg stands to counter fall risks, especially if you're over 60.
- Stay Hydrated and Fueled: Dehydration tightens muscles, making injuries more likely. Aim for water before, during, and after play, plus a post-game protein snack to aid recovery.
- Cool Down and Recover: End sessions with static stretches and foam rolling. If you feel tweaks, don't ignore them—schedule a chiropractic adjustment at Back2Strength for early intervention.
For a visual quick-guide, check out this infographic packed with these tips and more: Download Here. It's perfect for pinning in your gym bag!
How Back2Strength Chiropractic Keeps Eugene Pickleball Players in Top Form
As Eugene's go-to chiropractor for active lifestyles, Back2Strength specializes in sports chiropractic care tailored to pickleball warriors. Our personalized treatment plans combine gentle adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and strength restoration to address those nagging knee pains, shoulder tweaks, and wrist strains head-on. We've helped countless locals get back on the court faster—whether it's realigning your spine for better mobility or optimizing your nervous system for peak performance.
Located at 2704 Delta Oaks Dr. in Eugene, we're just minutes from your favorite courts. Our compassionate team creates custom plans to not only heal but prevent future issues, so you can focus on the fun.
Ready to Serve Without the Sore? Let's Chat
Pickleball's popularity isn't slowing down, and neither should your game. By incorporating these prevention strategies and leaning on expert care from an Eugene chiropractor like Back2Strength, you'll stay agile, strong, and injury-free.
Book your consultation today at Back2Strength.net or call (541) 484-0360. Let's keep Eugene swinging!
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