Montana Foot & Ankle

Common Foot Injuries in Pickleball and How to Prevent Them

Pickleball is quickly becoming a favorite recreational sport, especially in communities like Bozeman, Montana, where outdoor activities and social engagement are highly valued. It’s an activity that combines the agility of tennis with the casual nature of ping pong. Whether you’re an avid player or just beginning, it’s important to be aware of the potential foot injuries that can occur and how you can prevent them.

1. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions I treat among pickleball players. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive strain, like that experienced during quick lateral movements on the court, can cause small tears in the fascia, leading to pain and inflammation.

Symptoms:

  • Sharp heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest.
  • Pain that worsens after physical activity.

Prevention:

  • Ensure you’re wearing supportive footwear with good arch support and cushioning.
  • Warm up before playing, focusing on calf stretches to reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
  • Use orthotics if you have flat feet or other foot structural issues to provide additional support.

2. Ankle Sprains

With the fast-paced nature of pickleball, sudden changes in direction, jumping, and quick lateral movements are common. These actions put a lot of pressure on the ankle, making sprains a frequent injury.

Symptoms:

  • Swelling, bruising, or pain around the ankle.
  • Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot.
  • Instability in the ankle joint.

Prevention:

  • Invest in high-quality court shoes designed for lateral movements.
  • Strengthen the muscles around the ankle with balance exercises, such as single-leg stands or using a balance board.
  • Consider taping or wearing an ankle brace if you’ve had previous sprains.

3. Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone, often caused by overuse and repetitive stress. Pickleball requires a lot of stop-and-go movements, which can put stress on the metatarsal bones (the long bones in the foot), especially in players who play frequently or are new to the sport.

Symptoms:

  • Pain in the front of the foot, particularly when bearing weight.
  • Swelling on the top of the foot.
  • Tenderness to the touch.

Prevention:

  • Gradually increase your playing time to allow your feet to adapt to the increased activity.
  • Incorporate cross-training with other low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, to reduce the risk of overuse injuries.
  • Ensure you’re playing on proper surfaces with cushioning, as hard courts can increase the risk of stress fractures.

4. Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the ankle, can become irritated and inflamed with repetitive strain. In pickleball, the sudden bursts of movement and jumping put extra stress on this tendon, which can lead to Achilles tendonitis.

Symptoms:

  • Pain and stiffness along the back of the ankle, particularly in the morning.
  • Swelling in the tendon area.
  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Prevention:

  • Regularly stretch your calves and Achilles tendon before and after playing.
  • Strengthen the calf muscles through exercises like calf raises to better support the tendon.
  • Avoid playing on consecutive days, giving your body time to recover.

5. Turf Toe

While commonly associated with sports played on artificial turf, “turf toe” can also occur in pickleball. This injury happens when the big toe is forcibly bent upward, usually during a quick stop or sudden push-off.

Symptoms:

  • Pain, swelling, and limited movement in the big toe joint.
  • Bruising around the base of the big toe.
  • Difficulty pushing off the foot during movement.

Prevention:

  • Wear shoes with a firm, supportive sole that prevents excessive bending of the toe.
  • Avoid playing on overly hard surfaces that increase the risk of jamming the toe.
  • Strengthen your foot muscles with exercises such as toe curls and towel scrunches.

Seeking Treatment for Pickleball Injuries

If you’re experiencing foot pain or injury from pickleball, it’s important to seek treatment early. Ignoring symptoms can lead to more serious issues that may keep you off the court for longer. At Montana Foot and Ankle, we provide specialized care for athletes and recreational sports enthusiasts alike. From custom orthotics and physical therapy to advanced treatments for more severe injuries, we help keep you moving pain-free. Whether you’re new to pickleball or a seasoned player, taking steps to prevent foot injuries is essential. By wearing proper footwear, warming up adequately, and paying attention to early signs of discomfort, you can enjoy the game while minimizing your risk of injury. If you have any concerns about foot pain or want to ensure your feet are in top condition, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation.