Pickleball has quickly become one of the most popular sports in Edina and across the Twin Cities. It is fast paced, social, and accessible for athletes of all ages. Whether you are new to the game or playing several times a week, pickleball offers a great way to stay active and competitive.
At the same time, more athletes are noticing knee discomfort that seems to show up during or after play. For many, it starts as a mild ache or stiffness. For others, it becomes something that limits confidence on the court.
The good news is that knee pain does not mean you need to stop playing. It does mean your body is asking for attention.
Why Pickleball Can Be Tough on the Knees
Pickleball may look lower impact than sports like tennis or basketball, but it places very specific demands on the knees.
Quick lateral movements, sudden stops, pivoting, and frequent bending all place stress through the knee joint. Even short matches can involve hundreds of small direction changes that add up over time.
Unlike straight line activities such as walking or jogging, pickleball requires repeated side to side movement. If strength, mobility, or alignment are slightly off, the knees often take the load.
In Edina, many pickleball athletes are also balancing busy schedules, work demands, and other fitness activities. When recovery is limited, small movement issues can accumulate faster.
Common Knee Issues Seen in Pickleball Athletes
Knee discomfort rarely appears out of nowhere. In most cases, it develops gradually due to a combination of factors.
Some of the most common contributors include:
- Poor lower body alignment during movement
- Weakness in the hips or glutes
- Limited ankle mobility affecting knee mechanics
- Tight quadriceps or calves
- Repetitive play without adequate recovery
- Sudden increases in playing frequency or intensity
Many athletes assume the knee itself is the problem. In reality, the knee often reacts to what is happening above and below it.
The Role of Strength and Control
Strong knees are supported knees.
Strength in the hips, thighs, and core helps control how force travels through the knee during play. Without adequate strength, the knee absorbs stress it was not designed to handle alone.
This does not mean lifting heavy weights or following an extreme program. Controlled strength training focused on form, balance, and stability can make a meaningful difference for pickleball athletes.
When strength improves, athletes often notice better confidence in quick movements, smoother transitions, and less post game stiffness.
Mobility Matters More Than You Think
Mobility is often overlooked, especially by athletes who feel generally flexible.
Ankle stiffness can change how the knee tracks during lunges and side steps. Hip tightness can limit rotation and place extra strain on the knee during pivots.
Simple mobility work done consistently helps joints move the way they are designed to. This supports better mechanics and reduces unnecessary stress during play.
Recovery Is Part of Performance
One of the biggest mistakes pickleball athletes make is treating recovery as optional. Rest does not mean stopping activity. It means giving your body the chance to adapt. Short walks, gentle stretching, hydration, and sleep all play a role in how your knees feel from week to week. Ignoring recovery often leads to stiffness that slowly turns into discomfort.
For Edina athletes who play several times per week, recovery becomes just as important as time on the court.
When Knee Discomfort Should Be Addressed
Many athletes wait too long to seek guidance. They hope discomfort will simply fade or that pushing through is part of the game.
Signs it may be time to get support include:
- Discomfort that lasts more than a few weeks
- Stiffness that worsens after play
- Loss of confidence during lateral movement
- Swelling or soreness that limits activity
- Changes in how you move to avoid discomfort
Addressing these issues early often leads to faster progress and better long term outcomes.
A Smarter Approach for Pickleball Athletes
Every athlete moves differently. Age, history, strength levels, and playing style all matter.
A personalized approach looks at how your entire body moves, not just where discomfort shows up. This includes assessing strength, mobility, balance, and movement patterns specific to pickleball.
The goal is not just short term relief. It is helping you move better, play with confidence, and stay active long term.
One of the biggest fears athletes share is that seeking help means being told to stop.
In most cases, the opposite is true.
With the right guidance, many athletes continue playing while improving strength, movement quality, and recovery strategies. Small adjustments can lead to meaningful changes in how your knees feel on and off the court.
Take the Next Step Toward Confident Movement
If you are an Edina area pickleball athlete dealing with knee discomfort, you do not have to navigate it alone.
A free Discovery Visit is a simple way to get answers without pressure or commitment. It is an opportunity to talk through your goals, understand what may be contributing to your knee issues, and learn what steps could help you move forward with confidence.
If you want to keep playing the game you enjoy while taking care of your body, we invite you to get in touch and schedule your free Discovery Visit today.
Your knees matter. Your movement matters. And with the right support, you can keep doing what you love.
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