As pickleball grows across Edmonton, so do the injuries. At our clinic, more players are coming in with pain and mobility issues caused by the fast-paced demands of the game. Many have tried other treatments without lasting relief. At this point, our team steps in. Acupuncture helps heal pickleball injuries, supporting recovery and keeping you active on the court.

Dealing with a pickleball injury or trying to prevent one? Schedule a free consultation to see how acupuncture can help you heal, move better, and stay active. Our team is here to support you, now and in the seasons ahead.

Common Pickleball Injuries We See

With this growth, we are seeing an increase in injuries related to pickleball. Fast movements and repeated actions strain muscles, tendons, and joints. Quick stops, shuffles, overhead swings, and long rallies all add stress. The most common injuries we treat are lateral epicondylitis and rotator cuff injuries.

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

In fact, lateral epicondylitis, often referred to as tennis elbow, is a condition that is very common among pickleball players. Repeated paddle swings stress the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Over time, this causes small tears and inflammation.

For example, many of our patients describe sharp or burning pain when gripping the paddle or making certain movements during play. A study in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research (2019) found that acupuncture can significantly reduce pain and improve function. It does this by promoting local blood flow, reducing inflammation, and supporting the body’s natural healing response.

Rotator Cuff Tears

Similarly, repetitive overhead shots in pickleball can strain the rotator cuff. This group of muscles and tendons stabilizes the shoulder joint. Partial tears, inflammation, and impingement are common issues we see. These often present as shoulder pain, weakness, or a limited range of motion.

For instance, a study in Complementary Therapies in Medicine (2020) found that acupuncture can help treat rotator cuff injuries. It improves shoulder function and reduces pain by stimulating tissue repair and modulating the body’s pain pathways.

By addressing these injuries early, acupuncture helps relieve pain. It also supports the body’s healing processes. This allows players to return to the court with greater confidence and mobility.

How Acupuncture Supports Injury Recovery

At our clinic, we use acupuncture to target the root causes of pickleball injuries. We also support the body’s natural healing abilities. Unlike treatments that only mask symptoms, acupuncture works on several levels. It promotes real, lasting recovery.

Here is how it helps:

• Reduces inflammation
  Firstly, acupuncture helps the body release natural anti-inflammatory chemicals. This calms irritated tissues and reduces swelling in muscles, tendons, and joints.

• Improves circulation
  By increasing local blood flow, acupuncture delivers oxygen and nutrients to injured areas, accelerating tissue repair and waste removal.

• Modulates pain signals
  Next, acupuncture changes how the nervous system processes pain. This often brings immediate and noticeable relief. It is helpful for chronic or stubborn injuries that have not improved with other treatments.

• Relaxes tight muscles
  Additionally, muscle tension and spasms often come with pickleball injuries. Acupuncture helps relax tight muscles. This improves range of motion and reduces strain on other parts of the body.

• Supports overall healing
  Lastly, a study in Medicine (Baltimore) (2020) shows that acupuncture supports recovery. It helps by balancing the immune system, hormones, and reducing oxidative stress. These all support the body’s healing process.

As a result, acupuncture addresses these key factors. It offers a collaborative way to treat pickleball injuries. Patients recover and prevent future issues.

It’s Not Just for Pain — Acupuncture Helps You Move Better

Many people try acupuncture to help with pain from pickleball injuries. But it does more than just help with pain. Acupuncture helps the body work better. It helps muscles stay balanced, joints move easier, and the nervous system work well. As the body heals, people often move more easily. They become more flexible, steady, and strong.

Because of this, they can avoid future injuries and play better on the court. Our goal is to help each person return to the game feeling stronger, more confident, and ready to play.

When to Book an Appointment

It is best to start acupuncture as soon as a pickleball injury happens. Starting early can give better results. It can stop small problems from turning into big ones. However, even if the injury has been there for a long time, acupuncture can still help. It lowers pain, helps you move better, and supports healing.

Many people come to us after trying other treatments that did not fully help. When patients follow a regular treatment plan, including herbs or supplements when needed, they often heal faster. They also stay active longer. If you have a pickleball injury, our team is ready to help you get back on the court with confidence.

A Gentle but Powerful Tool for Staying Active

Acupuncture offers a safe, effective way to heal pickleball injuries and keep you moving. Reducing pain, improving mobility, and supporting the body’s natural healing helps players recover fully and stay active.

As part of your care, our team is here to guide you with a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. We support your recovery and help you keep doing what you love.

If you’re looking for a natural, evidence-informed way to recover from pickleball injuries in Edmonton, acupuncture may be the solution. It’s not just about easing pain. It’s about helping your body heal, move better, and stay strong for the game you love. Reach out to book a free consultation. You can learn more about our team here. Let’s take the first step toward your recovery.