Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world — and for good reason. It’s fun, fast-paced, social, and a fantastic workout. But with all the quick turns, lunges, and repetitive swings, padel injuries are surprisingly common, especially for beginners or players returning to sport after a break.
The good news? Most padel injuries can be treated — and even prevented — with physiotherapy.
Common Padel Injuries
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Despite the name, this injury affects many padel players. The repetitive backhand strokes and gripping of the racket strain the tendons on the outside of the elbow.
Symptoms: Pain on the outer elbow, weak grip, discomfort when lifting or twisting.
- Shoulder Strain or Rotator Cuff Injury
Serving and overhead smashes can overwork the rotator cuff muscles, especially if your shoulder strength or technique isn’t ideal.
Symptoms: Shoulder pain during play, weakness, stiffness, or a “catching” feeling with overhead movement.
- Knee Pain or Patellar Tendinopathy
Frequent lunges, quick stops, and changes in direction can irritate the knee tendons or joints, particularly if your lower body strength and stability are lacking.
Symptoms: Pain under or around the kneecap, stiffness after play, or discomfort during squats and lunges.
- Ankle Sprains
Padel’s fast footwork and sudden lateral movements put your ankles at risk — especially if your shoes don’t offer proper support or you land awkwardly.
Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, pain on the outside of the ankle, and difficulty bearing weight.
- Plantar Fasciitis
Repeated jumping and foot impact can strain the arch of the foot, especially if you’re playing on hard surfaces or wearing worn-out shoes.
Symptoms: Heel or arch pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after sitting.
How Physiotherapy Can Help Padel Players
Whether you’re recovering from an injury or aiming to stay injury-free, physiotherapy is your best doubles partner.
- Accurate Diagnosis
Physios identify the root cause of your pain, not just the symptoms — whether it’s a muscle imbalance, poor technique, or training error.
- Strengthening & Conditioning
A tailored rehab plan will focus on:
- Core and hip stability
- Shoulder and rotator cuff strength
- Knee control
- Foot and ankle support
These reduce stress on vulnerable joints and tendons.
- Movement & Technique Correction
Your physio may analyze your swing, footwork, or posture to correct poor mechanics that contribute to injury.
- Hands-On Treatment
Manual therapy, dry needling, taping, or soft tissue work can reduce pain, speed up healing, and restore mobility.
- Prevention & Return-to-Play Planning
Once you’re pain-free, your physio will guide your safe return to the court and help you build an injury-prevention routine with:
- Mobility drills
- Warm-up and cool-down advice
- Cross-training recommendations
Final Thoughts
Padel is meant to be fun, not painful. If you’re dealing with a nagging injury or want to avoid one altogether, physiotherapy can keep you fit, fast, and focused on the game — not your pain.
Don’t wait for it to get worse. Listen to your body, get assessed, and play stronger for longer.
Ready to stay in the game? Book a physiotherapy session today and let’s keep your performance sharp and your injuries at bay.