Article
Hurlands Pickleball & Padel Club Partners with Herrington Carmichael
Hurlands has announced a new partnership!...
Read moreSupporting Your Game: Tennis Elbow Tips
Fri Jun 5th | 2 minute read
Hi everyone,
I’m Ashley, the osteopath working alongside the Sports Therapy team upstairs at Hurlands Pickleball and Padel Club.
Over the past decade, racket sports have undergone a quiet revolution. While tennis remains a global staple, newer and more accessible sports such as padel and pickleball have surged in popularity. With this rise, however, comes a familiar problem making a strong comeback: tennis elbow.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Despite its name, tennis elbow is not limited to tennis players. It is an overuse injury affecting the tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow. Repetitive gripping and wrist extension can lead to microtears in the tendon, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced strength.
Why Padel and Pickleball Players Are at Risk
1. High Repetition, Less Recovery
In pickleball especially, rallies tend to be longer, with quick, repetitive shots at the net. This constant motion increases strain on the forearm tendons.
2. Technique Adaptation
Many players transition into these sports without proper coaching. Improper backhand technique, excessive wrist use, or gripping too tightly can all accelerate tendon overload.
3. New Player Demographics
Padel and pickleball attract a wide range of participants, including many beginners and returning athletes. Tendons that are not conditioned for repetitive loading are more susceptible to injury.
Symptoms to Watch For
Common signs of tennis elbow include:
- Pain on the outside of the elbow
- Reduced grip strength
- Pain when lifting objects or shaking hands
- Discomfort during or after play
Prevention Strategies
Strength and Conditioning
Eccentric strengthening exercises for the wrist extensors are key. Building forearm resilience can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
Technique Matters
Learning proper stroke mechanics, particularly on the backhand, can dramatically reduce strain. Even a few coaching sessions can make a big difference.
Many clubs also have on-site coaching staff available, so taking advantage of their guidance can help you refine technique early and avoid developing habits that contribute to injury.
Grip and Equipment Adjustments
- Use the correct grip size
- Avoid over-gripping the paddle or racket
- Consider vibration-dampening equipment where appropriate
Manage Your Load
Avoid sudden increases in playing time or intensity. Gradually build up your workload and allow adequate recovery between sessions.
Treatment and Recovery
If symptoms develop, early intervention is crucial. Treatment options may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice and anti-inflammatory strategies
- Osteopathic treatment focusing on tendon-loading programmes
- In persistent cases, therapies such as shockwave treatment or laser therapy may be considered
The Bottom Line
Padel and pickleball are fantastic, social, and accessible sports, but they are not injury-proof. As participation continues to grow, so does the importance of understanding how to protect your body.
If you’re experiencing elbow pain or would like advice on prevention, feel free to speak to me at Hurlands. Early management is often the key to a quicker recovery and getting you back on court.
