How Do You Treat Pickleball Elbow?

Treating pickleball elbow in its early stages typically involves rest, ice, activity modification, technique correction, and targeted physical therapy exercises. Most cases respond well to conservative treatment, though chronic or severe cases may require additional medical intervention.

Step-by-Step Treatment Approach

Rest: Reduce or pause pickleball play during an acute flare-up. Continuing to play through significant pain typically prolongs recovery and can worsen the underlying tendon damage.
Ice: Apply ice to the outer elbow for 15–20 minutes after activity or when symptomatic, to help reduce inflammation.
Technique correction: Work with a coach or experienced player to address grip pressure, swing mechanics, and whether you're relying too heavily on wrist snap rather than full-body rotation.
Equipment adjustment: A lighter paddle, larger grip size, or softer paddle face can reduce the impact transmitted to your elbow. An overgrip can also help reduce how tightly you need to grip the handle.
Physical therapy: Eccentric forearm strengthening exercises, guided by a physical therapist, have strong evidence supporting their effectiveness for lateral epicondylitis recovery.
Anti-inflammatory measures: Over-the-counter NSAIDs, used as directed, can help manage inflammation and discomfort in the short term.

Note

See a doctor or sports medicine professional if symptoms persist beyond a few weeks despite rest and conservative treatment, if the pain is severe, or if you notice weakness or numbness extending into the hand. Chronic cases that don't respond to conservative care may benefit from additional interventions such as corticosteroid injection or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.

Returning to Play

Once pain has subsided, return to pickleball gradually rather than jumping straight back into full-intensity play. Start with shorter sessions, focus on corrected technique from the outset, and monitor for any return of symptoms. Players who return too quickly or without addressing the underlying mechanical cause often experience a recurrence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep playing pickleball with mild elbow pain?

Mild, occasional discomfort that resolves quickly may not require a full stop, but persistent or worsening pain is a signal to rest and address the issue. Playing through worsening pain typically delays recovery and risks turning an acute issue into a chronic one.

What exercises help pickleball elbow specifically?

Eccentric wrist extensor exercises — slowly lowering a light weight through wrist extension — have strong research support for lateral epicondylitis recovery. A physical therapist can guide proper form and progression for these exercises based on your specific severity.

Questions about pickleball and your health? Email [email protected].