Common padel injuries I treat
- Elbow: tennis elbow and golfer's elbow (lateral and medial epicondylalgia) from racket impact and grip
- Shoulder: impingement and rotator cuff strain from overhead shots such as the smash and bandeja
- Back: lower and mid-back rotational strain from court movement and hitting
- Knee: patellar tendon pain and meniscal irritation from rapid changes of direction
- Ankle and foot: sprains, Achilles tendinopathy and loading problems from court surfaces
- Wrist and forearm: overuse problems from gripping and ball impact
Why padel causes the injuries it does
Padel is played on a small court with fast exchanges, constant stopping and turning, and balls that come back off the glass. Many of us also play in short, intense bursts at weekends, often after a week at a desk. That mix of repeated impact, twisting, overhead loading and a firm grip on the racket is why elbows, shoulders, backs and knees take the strain, and why they often flare up when playing frequency suddenly increases.
What treatment involves
- A full history, including how often you play, your level, your racket and grip, your court shoes and when the pain appears
- Assessment of the injured area and the links in the chain: shoulder, trunk, hips and feet
- Hands-on treatment to settle pain and restore movement
- Rehabilitation: strengthening and loading programmes, which matter especially for tendon problems
- Advice on whether to keep playing, how to modify, and how to build back up
Tendon problems such as tennis elbow often take weeks to months to settle, and progressive loading is usually central to recovery. I'll give you an honest timeline for your injury.
Playing smarter: practical tips
- Warm up for 5 to 10 minutes with light movement before you hit; don't go straight into smashes
- Check your grip size and racket weight, as an unsuitable grip can load the forearm
- Wear shoes designed for court sports with good lateral support
- Build up gradually after time off or when adding extra sessions each week
- Build strength in the shoulder, forearm, hips and legs outside of play
- If pain lingers or keeps getting worse, get it assessed early rather than playing through it
These principles apply to other racket sports too, including tennis, squash, badminton and pickleball.
Ready to get started?
You don't need a GP referral. Same-day appointments are often available, with evening and weekend times.
Related care at Thistle Osteopathy
Sports & Running Injuries
Running, gym and team-sport injuries, gait analysis and return-to-sport rehab.
Learn moreNeck Pain & Headaches
Neck pain, tension and neck-related headaches, whiplash, RSI and desk strain.
Learn moreBack Pain & Sciatica
Acute and long-standing back pain, sciatica, disc-related and nerve pain.
Learn moreClear, Straightforward Pricing
No hidden costs, no surprises, just transparent fees for thorough, unhurried care.
60 minutes
Includes a full case history, physical assessment, hands on treatment, and a personalised management plan.
Book First Appointment40 minutes
Ongoing, hands on treatment building on your management plan, with progress reviewed at every visit.
Book Follow-upPayment is due at the time of your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is padel elbow?
Padel elbow is a common name for pain at the outside of the elbow, similar to tennis elbow, caused by overload of the forearm tendons from gripping and hitting. Pain on the inside of the elbow (golfer's elbow) also occurs. Both respond well to assessment, load management and rehabilitation.
Can I keep playing padel while I'm being treated?
Often you can with modifications, but it depends on the injury. Amir will tell you what is reasonable, such as reducing volume, avoiding certain shots or temporarily changing your equipment, so you don't make it worse.
How long will a padel injury take to recover?
It varies widely. Strains and sprains can improve in days to weeks. Tendon problems often take longer. You'll get a realistic estimate after your assessment.
Do you treat padel injuries near Finchley and Barnet?
Yes. Thistle Osteopathy is based in Woodside Park, N12, and sees padel players from Finchley, North Finchley, Whetstone, Barnet and the surrounding areas.
How much does a padel injury appointment cost?
The first appointment (60 minutes, including assessment and treatment) is £65. Follow-up appointments (40 minutes) are £60.