Pickleball Wrist Pain? Here’s How to Fix It

Dealing with wrist pain can be a real bummer, especially when all you want to do is get out on the court and play. Whether you’re experiencing shooting pains, soreness, or just a persistent ache, it’s important to understand what’s causing your discomfort and how to address it.

Let’s dive into the common causes of wrist pain in pickleball, what you can do about it, and some tips from fellow players.

The Most Common Cause of Wrist Pain in Pickleball Players

Wrist pain in pickleball is often caused by overuse and improper technique. Tendonitis is a common diagnosis, which happens when the tendons in your wrist become inflamed from repetitive stress. Gripping your paddle too tightly can also exacerbate the issue, as it puts extra strain on your wrist muscles and tendons.

One player shared, “I had shooting pains when twisting my wrist from playing pickleball. My doc diagnosed tendonitis, and I realized gripping my paddle too hard was part of the problem.”

Some of the other common causes include inadequate equipment (using a paddle that is too heavy or has a handle that is too small), underlying wrist issues (carpal tunnel syndrome or previous injuries), weak wrist and forearm muscles.

Spotting Wrist Pain Early

Being aware of the early signs of wrist pain can help you address issues before they become severe. Common symptoms include:

• Sharp or shooting pain during or after playing
• Swelling or tenderness around the wrist joint
• Difficulty gripping the paddle or making wrist movements
• Pain that persists even with rest

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to take action to prevent further injury.

👉 Make sure to also read our article on the importance of wrist health for pickleball players.

What to Do If You Experience Wrist Pain?

If you’re feeling wrist pain, you must to address it early. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Rest and Ice: Give your wrist a break and apply ice to reduce inflammation. One player recommended, “Take some time off. Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, and an anti-inflammatory like naproxen can help.”
2. Consult a Specialist: If the pain persists, see an orthopedist or physical therapist. “My top suggestion is to talk to an orthopedist. They can scan the wrist to make sure there’s nothing wrong structurally,” advised another player.
3. Strengthen Your Wrist: Once the inflammation has subsided, work on strengthening your forearms and hands. Use weights or resistance bands to build up the muscles supporting your wrist.
4. Check Your Technique: Improper swing mechanics can contribute to wrist pain. One experienced player noted, “Look into your swing mechanics. Are there some motions that triggered the development of the condition?”

When to See a Doctor for Wrist Pain?

If your wrist pain persists despite rest, becomes severe, limits your range of motion, or causes numbness or swelling that won’t go away, it’s time to see a doctor. Also, if pain wakes you up at night or continues despite using braces or overgrips, get it checked out. Prior wrist injuries or conditions like arthritis are additional reasons to consult a professional.

Don’t ignore these signs—getting the right treatment early can help you get back on the court pain-free.

Should You Be Playing If You Have Wrist Pain?

This is a tough call. If the pain is minor, you might be able to continue playing with some modifications. However, pushing through severe pain can lead to chronic issues.

“Take complete rest for several weeks,” one player suggested. “Meanwhile, you can continue to hit against the wall with the other hand to keep in shape.”

Will an Overgrip Help with This Issue?

Overgrips can be a game-changer for many players. They can make the paddle handle thicker, reducing the need to grip as tightly and easing the strain on your wrist.

One player shared, “Adding an overgrip allowed my hand to relax more, and after a couple of weeks, I ditched the brace entirely. I haven’t had any pain since.”

Another noted, “Overgrips are cheap, so it’s worth a try. I use them out of preference, and they helped a buddy with wrist pain.”

One of our top picks for overgrips is the Selkirk Tacky Overgrip—definitely worth checking out!

Player Wisdom: Real Tips for Managing Wrist Pain

Here’s some advice from fellow pickleball players who’ve dealt with wrist pain:

☝️Try a Different Paddle

Sometimes, switching to a paddle with a lower swing weight or a different handle shape can make a big difference. One player shared, “A paddle with a lower swing weight really helped me. If you’re attached to your paddle, try adding some weight at the base of the handle to balance it out.”

☝️Wear a Brace

A wrist brace can provide support and prevent further injury. “I started using a wrist brace at work and while sleeping. It helped a bit, but the real improvement came when I added an overgrip to my paddle,” one player explained.

☝️Modify Your Play Style

Avoid shots that aggravate your wrist. “Find the shot that causes pain and stop using it. For example, if backhands hurt, switch to forehands until your wrist gets better,” advised a seasoned player.

☝️Explore Grip Options

Experiment with different grips to find one that reduces pain. “Trying different grip styles like Eastern, semi-Western, or Continental made a huge difference for me. The right grip can really help alleviate wrist pain,” said another player.

Remember, it’s important to address the root cause of the pain and not just the symptoms. With the right approach, you’ll be back on the court and playing pain-free in no time. Happy playing!