Pickleball and puddle ball are exciting and fast-paced sports that have surged in popularity across Calgary. However, the repetitive overhead motions required in these games put significant stress on the shoulder joint, often leading to injuries such as rotator cuff strains, impingement, and inflammation. Left untreated, these conditions can result in chronic pain and restricted mobility.
At Osteo Health Osteopathy Clinic in Calgary, we specialize in non-invasive, hands-on treatments that help athletes recover quickly and safely, ensuring they can get back to the game stronger than ever.
Let’s explore the most common shoulder injuries in pickleball and puddle ball players and how manual osteopathy can speed up recovery and prevent future injuries.
Common Shoulder Injuries in Pickleball & Puddle Ball
1. Rotator Cuff Strains and Tears
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keep the shoulder stable. Repetitive overhead swings can strain these muscles, causing inflammation, micro-tears, or even full tears.
Symptoms:
✔️ Shoulder pain during movement
✔️ Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
✔️ Clicking or popping sensations in the shoulder
2. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Frequent overhead swings can cause the rotator cuff tendons to become pinched between shoulder bones, leading to pain and restricted movement.
Symptoms:
✔️ Persistent pain, especially when lifting the arm
✔️ Decreased shoulder mobility
✔️ Weakness in the affected arm
3. Biceps Tendinitis
Overuse of the biceps tendon, which connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder, can cause pain and inflammation, especially during overhead movements.
Symptoms:
✔️ Pain in the front of the shoulder
✔️ Tenderness along the biceps tendon
✔️ Pain that worsens with swinging motions
4. Labral Tears
The labrum, a ring of cartilage that stabilizes the shoulder, can tear due to repetitive stress or sudden impacts, like diving for a ball.
Symptoms:
✔️ Deep shoulder pain
✔️ A feeling of locking or catching in the joint
✔️ Decreased shoulder strength
How Osteopathy Helps Pickleball & Puddle Ball Athletes Recover
At Osteo Health Osteopathy Clinic, we take a holistic and hands-on approach to treating shoulder injuries. Our non-invasive techniques not only relieve pain but also restore mobility and prevent further injuries.
1. Myofascial Release & Soft Tissue Therapy
✅ Reduces muscle tension and inflammation
✅ Improves circulation for faster healing
✅ Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions
2. Joint Mobilization & Manual Therapy
✅ Restores proper joint movement
✅ Enhances flexibility and range of motion
✅ Reduces stiffness and discomfort
3. Craniosacral Therapy for Shoulder Recovery
✅ Reduces nerve irritation and inflammation
✅ Restores overall body alignment and balance
✅ Promotes natural healing
4. Laser Therapy & Ultrasound Therapy
✅ Accelerates soft tissue repair
✅ Reduces swelling and inflammation
✅ Provides long-term pain relief
5. Home Care & Strengthening Exercises
✅ Personalized rehab exercises to restore shoulder strength
✅ Stretches to improve flexibility and prevent re-injury
✅ Guidance on proper posture and movement mechanics
Preventing Shoulder Injuries in Pickleball & Puddle Ball
To keep your shoulders strong and pain-free, follow these simple injury prevention tips:
✔️ Warm up properly before playing
✔️ Strengthen the shoulder stabilizers with targeted exercises
✔️ Improve posture and mechanics to reduce strain
✔️ Stretch regularly to maintain flexibility
✔️ Seek early treatment for any pain or discomfort
Get Back in the Game—Pain-Free!
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain from pickleball or puddle ball, don’t wait until it worsens! At Osteo Health Osteopathy Clinic in Calgary, we specialize in gentle, effective treatments that promote fast recovery and long-term relief—without surgery or medications.
📍 Book Your Appointment online Today!
✅ Get back to playing the sport you love—without pain!
Approved by Indira Ravaeva. Manual Osteopath. Member of National Manual Osteopathic Society.
References
Common Shoulder Injuries in Pickleball and Paddleball Players:
- Pickleball Shoulder Injuries
This article discusses common shoulder injuries among pickleball players, including rotator cuff injuries and shoulder impingement. - Common Pickleball and Paddleball Injuries
This resource outlines typical injuries associated with pickleball and paddleball, emphasizing shoulder pain resulting from overuse and repetitive motions.
- Pickleball Shoulder Injuries
Osteopathic Treatment for Shoulder Injuries:
- Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment for a Chronic Rotator Cuff Tear
A case report highlighting the benefits of osteopathic manipulative treatment in managing chronic rotator cuff tears, demonstrating improved function and pain relief. - Osteopathic Treatment of Patients with Shoulder Pain
This study discusses the osteopathic approach to treating shoulder pain, including techniques like massage and manipulation to support shoulder joint stability.
- Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment for a Chronic Rotator Cuff Tear
Preventing Shoulder Injuries in Pickleball and Paddleball:
- Managing Shoulder Injuries in Pickleball
An article providing insights into common shoulder injuries in pickleball and strategies for prevention, such as proper warm-up routines and conditioning exercises. - Pickleball Injuries Are on the Rise: Tips to Avoid Them
This resource offers practical advice on preventing injuries in pickleball, emphasizing the importance of warming up, using proper equipment, and listening to your body to avoid overuse injuries.
- Managing Shoulder Injuries in Pickleball