Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., and for good reason—it's fun, social, and a great workout. But with its quick side-to-side movements and fast-paced action, ankle injuries are common, especially among active players. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just getting into the game, knowing the risks can help you stay on the court longer—and pain-free.
Pickleball Players Top 5 Most Common Ankle Injuries
Let’s break down the top 5 ankle injuries pickleball players face, along with symptoms to watch for and when it's time to see a foot and ankle specialist.
Ankle Sprains – The Classic Court Injury
Ankle sprains are the most frequent injury seen in pickleball players. These happen when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch too far or tear, usually from an awkward step, quick pivot, or misstep.
Symptoms:
- Swelling and bruising
- Pain when walking or moving the ankle
- Tenderness around the joint
When to see a specialist:
If the swelling or pain doesn’t improve after a few days of rest and ice, or if walking is difficult, it’s best to have it checked. Untreated sprains can lead to chronic ankle instability.
Achilles Tendonitis – Overuse Can Take Its Toll
Achilles tendonitis is caused by repetitive stress on the tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel. Quick bursts of movement in pickleball can inflame this tendon, especially if you haven’t warmed up properly.
Symptoms:
- Pain or stiffness along the back of your heel
- Tenderness, especially after activity
- Swelling near the ankle
When to see a specialist:
If rest, ice, and gentle stretching don’t ease the pain after a week or two, get it looked at. Ignoring Achilles tendonitis can lead to more serious tears.
Stress Fractures – Small Cracks, Big Problems
A stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone, often from overuse or suddenly increasing your playing time. While not always obvious at first, these fractures can worsen without proper care.
Symptoms:
- Persistent pain in the ankle or foot that gets worse with activity
- Swelling or tenderness to touch
- Pain that eases with rest but returns during play
When to see a specialist:
Don’t push through stress fracture pain. If you suspect it, stop playing and get evaluated to prevent more severe injury.
Ankle Impingement – The Pinch You Can't Ignore
Ankle impingement occurs when soft tissue or bone gets pinched during movement, typically from repeated bending or twisting. It’s common in athletes who play sports that involve quick stops and starts.
Symptoms:
- Sharp, pinching pain in the front or back of the ankle
- Swelling or stiffness
- Pain that worsens with certain movements, like squatting
When to see a specialist:
If the pain is affecting your range of motion or making it hard to play, a specialist can assess whether impingement is the cause and recommend treatment.
Peroneal Tendon Injuries – Often Overlooked, But Serious
The peroneal tendons run along the outside of your ankle and foot, helping stabilize the joint during movement. Sudden twisting motions, like those in pickleball, can cause strain or tears in these tendons.
Symptoms:
- Pain and swelling along the outer ankle
- A snapping or popping feeling during movement
- Weakness or instability in the ankle
When to see a specialist:
If your ankle feels unstable or the pain keeps coming back, don’t wait. Proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term damage.
Why Ankle Injuries Are So Common in Pickleball
Pickleball is known for its accessibility and low-impact nature, but don’t let that fool you—injuries, especially to the ankles, are more common than most players realize. The combination of sudden starts, lateral movement, and fast-paced rallies puts a lot of stress on the lower body, particularly for older adults or those new to the sport.
Recent medical data highlights a sharp rise in injuries as pickleball’s popularity has grown. One study published in the Journal of Emergency Medicine tracking injury trends over two decades found a significant surge in bone fractures—particularly among women over 60.
According to another study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, emergency room visits related to pickleball found that adults over 50 accounted for more than 90% of the reported cases. Among those injuries, strains and sprains were the most frequent, slightly edging out fractures.
Preventing Ankle Injuries in Pickleball
While injuries can happen, there are ways to reduce your risk:
- Warm up before every game
- Wear supportive, court-specific shoes
- Work on ankle-strengthening exercises to improve stability
- Don’t play through pain—listen to your body
Pickleball is a blast, but ankle injuries can take you out of the game if ignored. If you're dealing with ongoing pain or want expert advice, schedule an appointment with us today. We're here to help you get back on your feet—stronger than ever.
