Ive been playing 3-4 times a week for about 5 months and my right elbow has been bugging me for the last few weeks. Its not terrible pain but its definitely there especially when i grip the paddle tight or try to put power on a drive. Feels like its on the outside of my elbow. Im guessing this is tennis elbow? Should i take a break or can i play through it with some adjustments? Really dont want to stop playing if i dont have to.
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Physical therapist here who also plays. Outside of the elbow is lateral epicondylitis aka tennis elbow and yes its super common in pickleball. Playing through it usually makes it worse. I would take at least a week off and ice it. When you come back try a counterforce strap (the band that goes around your forearm just below the elbow). Also look at your grip size, a grip thats too small forces you to squeeze harder which aggravates it.
a week off is gonna be rough but i hear you. i actually think my grip might be too small now that you mention it. never really thought about it. do those forearm straps actually work or is it placebo?
they genuinely work for most people. they redistribute the force away from the inflamed tendon. not a cure but they help manage it while you play. maybe $12 on amazon. worth trying
Went through this exact thing last summer. What fixed it for me was 1) switching to a lighter paddle 2) doing eccentric wrist exercises every day (look up tyler twist with a flexbar on youtube) and 3) cutting back to 2 times a week instead of 4. took about 6 weeks to feel normal again. The flexbar exercises were a game changer honestly.
i played through mine for 2 months thinking it would go away and it got so bad i couldnt open a jar. ended up needing 3 months completely off. dont be dumb like me lol. take the break now while its still mild.
Check your paddle weight too. Heavier paddles put more stress on the elbow and wrist joints. If youre swinging something over 8oz and playing 4 days a week thats a lot of repetitive stress. Some people also add lead tape to their paddles for more power but that comes at a cost if your body cant handle it. Going lighter and focusing on technique over power saved my arm.