Understanding Upper Extremity Injury Prevalence and Risk in Pickleball Players: A Nationwide Survey.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the prevalence and predictors of upper extremity injury in pickleball players.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Pickleball players aged ≥18 years from across the United States were invited to take a prevalidated survey. The primary outcome was self-reported upper extremity all-complaint injuries (time-loss and non-time-loss) in the past 12 months. Collected through a survey, potential predictor variables were sex, age, playing time (amount per week), and perception of injury prevention programs. Injury prevalence was reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and injury predictors were analyzed using multivariable logistics regression.

RESULTS

A total of 1758 athletes responded. Of these, 689 players (39.0%; 95% CI: 37.0%, 41.6%) reported experiencing at least 1 upper extremity injury (male, 42.0%; female, 37.0%). Additionally, 285 players (16.2%; 95% CI: 14.5%, 18.0%) reported time-loss injuries and 527 players (30.0%; 95% CI: 27.7, 32.1) experienced non-time-loss injuries. The most frequently cited injury types were chronic overuse conditions (41%), sprains (24%), and strains (20%). The significant predictors of injury were male sex, increased frequency of play during the week, shorter play history, and decreased perceived importance of injury prevention.

CONCLUSION

Upper extremity injuries in pickleball players were common; 1 in 3 athletes reported injuries annually. Non-time-loss and chronic injuries were the most common injuries. JOSPT Open 2026;4(2):174-180. Epub 22 January 2026. doi:10.2519/josptopen.2026.0171.