Imagine a tiny, invisible hitchhiker nestled between your toes, one that announces its presence with every step you take. This unwelcome passenger is Morton’s neuroma, a thickened nerve tissue that transforms the simple act of walking into a painful ordeal.

Morton’s neuroma occurs when tissue thickens around a nerve in the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. This compression irritates the nerve, causing it to enlarge and generate pain signals with each step. It’s like having a pebble permanently lodged in your shoe, except it’s inside your foot. While surgery is an option for this condition, research shows that nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy can be just as effective for reducing pain and improving function. So, before you consider going under the knife, let’s explore how physical therapy can help!

Otherwise–simple tasks become challenging chores with Morton’s neuroma

Morton’s neuroma typically leads to a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot that is accompanied by tingling or numbness in the affected toes. Patients often say that it feels like they’re “walking on a marble” even when barefoot. For some, removing one’s shoes alleviates the pain to a degree due to less pressure on the foot, but this relief is often only temporary.

As a result of these symptoms, everyday activities tend to become challenging for most patients with Morton’s neuroma. Shopping trips become expeditions, dance classes turn into endurance tests, and even standing to cook dinner becomes a countdown to discomfort. Contributing factors to symptoms include the following:

• Fashionable but problematic footwear (particularly high heels and narrow–toed shoes)
• Having an abnormal foot structure
• Participating in activities that repeatedly stress the front of the foot

Understanding these factors can help patients navigate both treatment options and prevention strategies.

Hands-on manual therapy found to be one of the best treatments available

There are several treatments out there for Morton’s neuroma, but it’s unclear which are most beneficial for relieving pain and improving function. With this in mind, a team of researchers conducted a review to determine the most effective nonsurgical treatments for this condition. They analyzed 25 studies describing various interventions for Morton’s neuroma and found that steroid injections and manual therapy were supported by the strongest evidence for alleviating pain.

Manual therapy is a hands–on intervention that includes joint mobilization and manipulation techniques. It is frequently used by physical therapists for conditions like Morton’s neuroma, where they use these specific techniques to improve joint mobility in the foot, reduce pressure on the affected nerve, and restore proper biomechanics. This means that with the right treatment, you could experience relief without needing injections or surgery.

Physical therapy for Morton’s neuroma isn’t just about relieving pain. It’s also about addressing the root cause of the issue. In addition to manual therapy, here are some other interventions a physical therapist will use in a typical treatment program:

• Stretching and strengthening exercises: targeted movements to reduce strain on the forefoot and improve overall foot mechanics
• Footwear and orthotics guidance: properly fitted shoes and supportive insoles can make a world of difference in reducing pressure on the nerve
• Gait Training: learning to walk properly can help offload pressure from the painful area and prevent future issues

Why choose physical therapy over other treatments?

Many patients with Morton’s neuroma are offered corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. While injections can provide short–term relief, they don’t address the underlying biomechanical issues that led to the problem in the first place. Additionally, repeated steroid injections can lead to tissue damage over time.

On the other hand, physical therapy provides a long–term solution by retraining your foot and lower leg to move properly, reducing stress on the affected nerve. Plus, research has shown that manual therapy techniques can be just as effective as injections for pain relief–without the side effects!

Call us today to begin your journey to less foot pain

If Morton’s neuroma is slowing you down, we strongly recommend trying nonsurgical treatments before considering surgery. Physical therapy offers a safe, effective, and non–invasive way to manage pain and restore function. With the right combination of hands–on treatment, exercises, and expert guidance, you can get back to walking, running, and living life without foot pain.

Contact our physical therapy clinic today and take your first step toward pain-free movement! The full text for the study featured in this newsletter can be found on the journal’s website.

Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders in the U.S., affecting nearly 40% of adults each year. Pain can be caused by poor posture, work related activities or injury. Whatever the cause, back pain can drastically reduce your quality of life and ability to function. Many cases of low back pain resolve on their own, but treatment is essential when pain lingers. Physical therapy is the best choice for acute low back pain, and early treatment has the best chance of success.

What is Acute Low Back Pain?

Acute low back pain, which is defined as pain lasting for less than four weeks, can be caused by factors such as muscle strains, spinal issues, or prolonged sitting. If left untreated, acute pain may persist for more than three months, in which case it is defined as chronic pain. Chronic low back pain is a much more difficult issue to treat and opens the door to more invasive procedures like surgery and injections. Therefore, early intervention with physical therapy is particularly important at the acute stage, as it can alleviate pain and improve function quickly while reducing the risk of progression to chronic pain.

Physical Therapy vs. Wait and See Approach

A 2017 study examined the cost effectiveness of physical therapy for acute low back pain compared to the usual primary care approach, which typically involves a waiting period before considering physical therapy. The study followed 220 patients over one year to measure improvements in quality of life, pain levels, and the cost of treatment. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. One group received early physical therapy, which included four sessions of hands on therapy and therapeutic exercise, while the other group received usual care, which included advice to wait and see if the pain would resolve on its own.

Results from the study strongly supported early physical therapy over usual care:

• Improved Quality of Life: Patients who received early physical therapy experienced a greater improvement in their quality of life compared to those who waited for symptoms to resolve. On average, physical therapy provided a gain of 0.02 quality adjusted life years (QALYs), a measure that assesses the effectiveness of treatment on both lifespan and health quality. This translates to better pain management, improved function, and overall wellbeing.
• Cost Effectiveness: While physical therapy had higher upfront costs, the long term benefits outweighed the additional expenses. Physical therapy resulted in a net benefit of $4,160 per patient. This was mainly due to a faster recovery, which reduces the likelihood of undergoing expensive treatments like surgery or injections down the road.
• Reduction in Pain Related Fear and Avoidance: Physical therapy not only addressed the physical aspects of acute back pain but also helped reduce fear and avoidance behaviors that can lead to disability and mental health issues.
• Lower Long Term Costs: By addressing pain early on, physical therapy reduced the risk of patients developing chronic pain. Chronic pain often requires more invasive and expensive interventions, which can lead to higher overall healthcare costs.

Why Physical Therapy is the Better Option

Physical Therapy is the best choice for acute low back pain by offering multiple benefits:

• Non invasive
• Focuses on patient education
• Teaches patients exercises that can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and restore normal movement patterns.

In addition, physical therapy can prevent the need for pain medications like opioids. These come with their own set of risks, including dependency.

Unlike the traditional wait and see approach, early physical therapy helps patients recover faster. This can prevent the long term consequences of chronic pain and costly treatments that often come with it.

Get Started on Your Path to Less Back Pain Today

If you’re experiencing acute low back pain that doesn’t seem to be improving, don’t wait. Early physical therapy can provide significant pain relief of back pain, prevent chronic issues, and save you time and money.

Contact Us Today. Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced staff, or get answers to any questions you may have.

For more details on the study featured in this article, click here.

Imagine your head as a bowling ball perched on top of a flexible straw. Now picture that straw being violently whipped back and forth. This is whiplash, a traumatic event that happens in a few seconds but can continue to bother you for months or years. More than 40% of people who experience whiplash develop long–term symptoms, including persistent neck pain, stiffness, dizziness, and even difficulty using the arms due to nerve involvement. These are collectively known as whiplash–associated disorders (WADs), which can prove to be a nuisance for the many patients who experience them.

The good news? Physical therapy can be a game–changer for those struggling with chronic WADs. Research has shown that neck–specific exercises, commonly used in physical therapy, significantly improve neck function and reduce disability–far better than general physical activity.

WADs are like ‘invisible injuries’ that still do plenty of damage

When WADs occur, patients often experience a puzzling array of complaints: neck pain that radiates into the shoulders and arms, headaches at the base of the skull, dizziness that makes it difficult to move or function, and a fog that settles over thinking and memory. Some patients also describe strange sensations—like tingling, burning, or numbness—traveling down their arms to their fingertips, as if their nerves seem to be malfunctioning.

WADs typically emerge from rapid changes in acceleration and deceleration forces. Rear–end vehicle collisions that quickly catapult the head forward then backward are the most common culprits, but they can also occur from sports injuries, falls, or amusement park rides. The severity often depends on factors like:

• Positioning: A turned head fares worse.
• Awareness: Tensed muscles resist better than relaxed ones.
• Age: Younger necks typically recover faster.
• Pre–existing conditions: Unique vulnerabilities impact recovery.

Exercises that target the muscles around the neck lead to significant improvements

Treatments for WADs should not only alleviate pain and dysfunction but also prevent future complications. Physical therapy—which typically includes neck–specific exercises along with other interventions—is among the most commonly recommended approaches for WADs, but long–term data on its effectiveness is lacking. Therefore, a rigorous study, known as a randomized controlled trial, was conducted to compare the effectiveness of three different interventions for WADs.

For the study, researchers randomly assigned 216 patients with chronic (long–term) WADs to undergo one of three interventions for 12 months:

• Neck–specific exercise (NSE): A structured program focusing on strengthening deep and superficial neck muscles to improve endurance and mobility.
• Neck–specific exercise with a behavioral approach (NSEB): The same exercises as the NSE group, but with added psychological strategies to address the mental component of their symptoms and educate patients on pain management.
• Prescribed physical activity (PPA): A program that included only general fitness exercise recommendations—like walking and swimming—with no focus on the neck.

Results showed that both the NSE and NSEB groups saw significant improvements compared to the PPA group. Participants in the NSE and NSEB groups experienced:

• Better neck muscle endurance
• Improved range of motion with less disability
• Less pain during physical tests

Grip strength didn’t differ significantly between groups, but patients in the PPA group who had poor neck function actually reported worse disability over time.

How physical therapy helps with recovery

Under the care of a physical therapist, NSEs are integrated into a personalized treatment program designed to alleviate symptoms and improve neck function. While the specific details of each program vary, all work towards achieving the following goals:

• Targeted strengthening: By focusing on the muscles that support the neck, therapy helps restore proper movement and stability.
• Pain management techniques: Hands–on therapy techniques like manipulation and gentle mobilization help reduce stiffness and discomfort.
• Improved range of motion: Specific stretches and guided movements help regain flexibility and prevent stiffness from worsening.
• Education and support: Many patients avoid movement due to fear of pain, which can worsen their condition; physical therapists provide education and support to build confidence and promote healing.

Don’t let pain and stiffness hold you back any longer. Call us today!

Living with chronic neck pain from whiplash isn't just frustrating–it can impact your daily activities, work, and overall wellbeing. But as this research shows, the right kind of exercise can help you regain control and get back to doing what you love. If you're struggling with WADs, our physical therapists can guide you every step of the way to rebuild strength, improve mobility, and reduce discomfort.

Contact us today to take the first step toward a pain–free future, and read more about the featured study on the journal's website.

As we age, staying active becomes increasingly important for maintaining health, independence, and quality of life. Yet, many older adults find it challenging to identify the most effective and safe forms of exercise to meet their needs. Traditional advice often emphasizes low–impact activities like walking, but emerging research suggests that structured exercise programs like High–Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Moderate–Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) can provide even greater benefits for aging populations. HIIT involves alternating short periods of intense anaerobic exercise with brief recovery periods and is typically performed at ≥80% of one’s maximal heart rate. MICT consists of steady, moderate–intensity aerobic exercise over longer durations, usually at 60–70% of one’s maximal heart rate.

The aging process naturally brings changes such as reduced muscle strength, slower metabolism, and increased risk for chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. For many, these changes may feel inevitable, but the right exercise routine can significantly slow these declines. A recent study highlights how HIIT and MICT can combat the effects of aging, improve overall health, and enhance quality of life. By understanding the science behind these exercise methods, older adults can make informed decisions about their fitness routines and take proactive steps toward healthier aging.

The Research: HIIT vs. MICT for Older Adults

For the study, researchers reviewed the findings of 25 studies that investigated the effectiveness of either a HIIT or MICT program for older adults. Here’s what they found:

• Improved Cardiovascular Health: Both HIIT and MICT significantly improved cardiovascular fitness, a key factor in preventing heart disease. Participants in both groups saw better oxygen uptake and heart health, which are crucial for maintaining stamina and reducing fatigue.
• Enhanced Muscle Strength and Function: HIIT programs were particularly effective at improving muscle strength and endurance. This is vital for older adults who want to maintain mobility and independence.
• Better Metabolic Health: Both training styles contributed to better glucose control and reduced risk factors for chronic diseases like diabetes. HIIT showed slightly more pronounced effects in improving metabolic function, making it a promising option for those with prediabetes or metabolic syndrome.
• Positive Mental Health Outcomes: Participants of both HIIT and MICT programs reported improved mood and reduced anxiety levels, highlighting the mental health benefits of staying active.

Why Exercise Matters More as You Age

Regular physical activity is a key component of a healthy lifestyle at all ages, but it is particularly critical for older adults for several reasons:

1. Prevents Decline in Mobility: Exercise strengthens muscles and improves balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
2. Boosts Cognitive Function: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which may help stave off memory decline and cognitive impairments.
3. Improves Longevity: Staying active can lower the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, ultimately leading to a longer, healthier life.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

While the benefits of HIIT and MICT are clear, starting an exercise routine can be intimidating for those new to fitness or with an existing health condition. That’s where physical therapy comes in. Physical therapists can:

• Create a Tailored Program: Your physical therapist will design an individualized exercise plan that meets your unique needs, abilities, and goals.
• Teach Proper Techniques: With professional guidance, you’ll learn how to perform exercises correctly, which minimizes the risk of injury.
• Provide Motivation and Support: Staying consistent with a new exercise routine can be challenging. Your physical therapist will help you stay on track and celebrate your progress.

The research is clear: both HIIT and MICT offer several significant benefits for older adults, including improved cardiovascular health and better mental wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to maintain independence, prevent chronic disease, or simply feel your best, incorporating regular exercise into your routine is one of the most effective ways to achieve your goals. If you’re unsure where to start, a physical therapist can provide the guidance and support you need to get moving safely and effectively.

Contact Us Today For More Information!

Ready to take the first step toward better health? Our experienced physical therapists are here to help you create a safe, effective exercise plan tailored to your needs. Call our clinic today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

For more information about the benefits of MICT and HIIT for older adults, click here.

Achilles tendinopathy is a common overuse injury that affects the tendon connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. It often develops in runners and active individuals due to repetitive stress and inadequate recovery. Those with Achilles tendinopathy may experience pain, stiffness, and difficulty performing high–impact activities like running or jumping. The good news? With proper treatment and a gradual return–to–sport plan, a complete recovery can be achieved.

The path back to sports after Achilles tendinopathy requires careful management to prevent further injury. A recent study shed some light on how running patterns and loading symmetry–the balance between the affected and unaffected leg–impact pain when a patient is preparing to return to sports. While these findings provide valuable insights, they also highlight the importance of consulting a physical therapist to tailor your recovery plan and ensure a safe return to your favorite athletic pursuit.

The Study: Running Patterns and Pain During the Return–to–Sport Phase

Researchers investigated the relationship between pain in the Achilles tendon and running symmetry in patients with Achilles tendinopathy during the return–to–sport phase, which is the period of recovery when a patient prepares to get back into their preferred sport or activity. Here are the key findings:

• Loading Asymmetry and Pain: Runners who favored their uninjured leg experienced increased pain in their injured Achilles tendon, especially on consecutive running days.
• Consecutive Run Days: Pain worsened with more consecutive days of running without adequate rest, underscoring the need for recovery days in a return–to–sport program.
• Running Frequency: Interestingly, the total number of running sessions over two weeks did not significantly impact the severity of symptoms in the short term, so long as their overall distance was controlled.

These results emphasize the importance of balancing one’s load during running and highlight how using improper mechanics can prolong pain and recovery time.

Why Physical Therapy Is Essential

Navigating the return to sports after Achilles tendinopathy can be challenging but seeing a physical therapist can make a major difference. Here’s how a physical therapist can support your recovery:

1. Personalized Rehabilitation Plans

Physical therapists develop customized programs that consider your unique needs, pain levels, and activity goals. They use evidence–based approaches to help you progress safely through the return–to–sport phase.

2. Gait Analysis and Correction

Some physical therapists will use tools like wearable sensors or video analysis to identify and address running patterns that are asymmetrical. Correcting these mechanics reduces stress on the injured tendon and minimizes the risk of reinjury.

3. Gradual Load Progression

Progressive loading is key to Achilles tendinopathy recovery. A therapist will guide you through exercises that gradually strengthen the tendon, ensuring it can handle increasing demands over time.

4. Pain Monitoring and Recovery Guidance

Therapists can teach you how to monitor pain levels during activity and recognize when to rest. They’ll also recommend the optimal frequency and duration of runs to support tendon healing.

Tips for a Successful Return to Sports

If you’re currently recovering from Achilles tendinopathy, here are some additional tips to make your transition back to sports smoother:

1. Prioritize Recovery Days: Avoid running on consecutive days to give your tendon time to heal and remodel.
2. Monitor Pain Levels: Use a pain scale to gauge your symptoms. Mild discomfort (2–3 out of 10) during activity is generally acceptable, but pain should subside quickly after.
3. Focus on Strengthening: Incorporate exercises like heel raises, eccentric calf exercises, and resistance training to build tendon strength.
4. Seek Professional Guidance: A physical therapist can provide expert advice and adjust your program based on your progress.

What This Means for You

Returning to your prior level of performance after Achilles tendinopathy is possible with the right approach, and this study reinforces the importance of balanced running mechanics and adequate recovery to minimize pain and improve outcomes. However, every recovery journey is unique, which is why working with a physical therapist is so valuable. They’ll ensure your rehabilitation program is tailored to your needs, helping you achieve a full and safe return to your favorite activities.

Contact Us Today For More Information

If you’re recovering from Achilles tendinopathy or have questions about returning to sports, our experienced physical therapists are here to help. Call our clinic today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

For more information about the featured study, click here.

For most people, waking up with a stiff, twisted neck is a moderate inconvenience and a difficult way to start the day. But for those with a condition called torticollis, or wryneck, it's often much more than that. Wryneck causes the neck to twist involuntarily, which leads to an unnatural tilt or rotation of the head. As a result, wryneck can make simple activities like looking around or holding your head up feel uncomfortable and even painful. While it might resolve quickly in some cases, for others, wryneck can persist and significantly disrupt one's daily life in the process.

There are two main types of wryneck: congenital and acquired. Congenital wryneck, which is present from birth, often stems from positioning in the womb or complications during delivery. Acquired wryneck, on the other hand, can result from muscle spasms, infections, or even something as simple as sleeping awkwardly and occurs later in life. The good news is that with timely and proper treatment, including physical therapy, most cases of wryneck can be effectively managed or resolved.

What Causes Wryneck?

Wryneck develops when the neck muscles tighten or spasm, pulling the head into a tilted position. Some common causes include:

• Muscle Injury: Damage to the neck muscles, such as during childbirth or from physical trauma, can lead to wryneck.
• Infections or Irritation: Viral or bacterial infections affecting the cervical ligaments can contribute to the condition.
• Poor Posture or Sleeping Habits: Extended periods of awkward positioning can strain the neck, triggering muscle spasms.
• Other Factors: Herniated discs, slipped facets (small joints in the spine), and certain medical conditions like burns or scarring can also lead to wryneck.

Symptoms of Wryneck

Wryneck symptoms can vary but typically include the following:

• Pain or stiffness in the neck
• Head tilted to one side
• Difficulty turning the head
• Muscle spasms in the neck
• Awkward positioning of the chin

These symptoms may resemble other conditions, which is why it's critical to see a healthcare professional like a physical therapist for a diagnosis. Diagnostic tools like physical exams, X–rays, or MRIs may be needed to confirm wryneck.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of effective treatment for wryneck. Here's how it can help:

1. Pain Management

Therapists use techniques like heat therapy, ultrasound, and manual stretching to ease muscle spasms and reduce discomfort. These methods provide immediate relief and promote healing.

2. Restoring Mobility

A therapist can guide you through gentle exercises to improve neck flexibility and restore a full range of motion. This is especially important for preventing stiffness and maintaining normal function.

3. Addressing the Root Cause

Physical therapists don't just treat the symptoms–they tackle the underlying issues causing wryneck, such as poor posture, weak muscles, or imbalances. Tailored exercises can correct these issues, which will reduce the risk of recurrence.

4. Preventing Long–Term Complications

Without treatment, wryneck can lead to chronic pain, poor posture, and even spinal alignment issues. Physical therapy ensures you recover fully and minimize future risks.

Tips for Managing Wryneck

If you're currently dealing with wryneck, here are some additional tips to complement your physical therapy plan:

1. Use Heat or Ice Therapy: Apply a heating pad or ice pack to relax muscles and reduce inflammation.
2. Practice Gentle Stretches: Your therapist can recommend safe stretches to ease stiffness.
3. Maintain Good Posture: Keep your neck aligned and avoid slouching, especially during work or sleep.
4. Follow Your Therapist's Guidance: Adhere to your prescribed exercise program and avoid activities that may strain your neck further.

Contact Us Today!

If your symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by new issues, it's best to consult a healthcare provider like a physical therapist. Physical therapy is especially valuable for long–term management and recovery, as it offers personalized care to help you regain normal function and prevent future flare–ups. So if you're experiencing symptoms of wryneck or need guidance on recovery, our experienced physical therapists are here to help. Call our clinic today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

For more information about wryneck, click here.

Pickleball has been growing rapidly in popularity, becoming a favorite pursuit for players of all ages. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and ping–pong makes it accessible and exciting for people seeking a fun and social way to stay active. The sport's ease of play and low entry barriers have also contributed to its rise in popularity, especially among older adults looking for an enjoyable and less strenuous alternative to traditional sports.

However, as participation increases, so does the number of pickleball–related injuries. While much attention is given to lower–body injuries like sprains or strains, injuries to the hands and wrists are also quite common, yet often overlooked. Understanding these risks and learning how to protect yourself can help you enjoy pickleball without pain or injury.

The Rise of Pickleball–Related Fractures

According to an extensive study that analyzed emergency department visits, there has been a dramatic increase in pickleball–related fractures over the past two decades. From 2002 to 2022, the number of fractures from the sport increased by 90–fold, which equates to about 5,400 fractures occurring annually in recent years. This rapid rise reflects not only the sport's growing popularity, but also its unique physical demands.

The study revealed that players over the age of 60 accounted for 87% of all reported fractures, with women comprising 69% of these cases. Most fractures occurred in the upper extremities, including the upper arm bone (humerus) and the two wrist bones (radius and ulna), which made up 66% of all injuries. Falls were identified as the primary cause, accounting for over 92% of all fractures. But physical therapy can play a critical role in preventing these injuries through strength training, balance improvement, and guidance on proper techniques.

Types of Fractures Observed

The study also shed light on the specific types of fractures most commonly associated with pickleball:

1. Radius Fractures

Fractures of the radius–the wrist bone on the thumb side of the forearm–were the most frequently reported, representing 30% of all upper extremity injuries. These typically result from players using their hands to break a fall, making them especially common among older female players.

2. Humerus and Ulna Fractures

Fractures of the humerus (8%) and ulna (3%) were also common. These injuries often occurred due to falls or missteps during play, further emphasizing the risk of hitting the ground hard.

3. Lower Extremity and Trunk Fractures

Although less common, fractures of the pelvis, ribs, and lower extremities were also noted. These injuries were more likely to require hospitalization, with men and older players being at higher risk.

Seasonal and Demographic Trends

Interestingly, fractures were more likely to occur during the winter months, with a significant spike in cases reported from December to February. Thursdays and Fridays were the most common days for emergency visits, suggesting that higher participation rates on these days may contribute to the trend. The demographic breakdown also showed that while women were more prone to fractures overall, men faced higher odds of severe injuries requiring hospital admission. This disparity may be linked to differences in bone density and the types of fractures sustained.

Preventing Pickleball–Related Fractures

Although fractures can be severe, it's possible to reduce the risk for injury through a physical therapy–based prevention program. Our physical therapists can design a personalized prevention program for any pickleball player, including high–risk groups like older adults. These types of programs typically include the following interventions:

Strength and Balance Training

Improving strength and balance can help players stabilize themselves and recover from missteps, reducing the likelihood of falls.

Protective Gear

Wrist guards and other protective equipment may be recommended to mitigate the impact of falls and reduce the severity of injuries.

Proper Warm–Up and Technique

Engaging in warm–up exercises and focusing on proper footwork and paddle technique can prevent many common accidents on the court. Our physical therapists can teach these essential skills to help improve your overall performance safely.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

For players who do sustain a fracture, recovery often involves physical therapy to restore strength, mobility, and function. Treatment plans may include range–of–motion exercises, pain management techniques, and guidance on safely returning to play. A physical therapist can therefore play a crucial role in ensuring a full and efficient recovery, reducing the risk of long–term complications or re–injury.

The rapid growth of pickleball has brought with it a corresponding increase in injuries, particularly fractures. But by understanding the associated risks, taking preventive measures, and incorporating physical therapy into your routine, you can ensure that you're staying safe while enjoying the game.

Contact Us Today For More Information

If you've recently experienced a pickleball–related injury or you want to take the initiative to reduce your risk, call our clinic today to learn more or to schedule an appointment with one of our expert physical therapists. We're here to help you stay active and healthy.

For more information about the featured study on pickleball–related fractures, click here for the full text.