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Pickleball Safety Tips From Covenant Health

  • 3 minute read.
  • Last Updated: 4/13/2026

Pickleball is filling courts across the South and bringing people together in a way few activities can. Easy to learn, social by nature and fun at any age, the sport has quickly become a favorite pastime across East Tennessee.  

As pickleball continues to grow, Covenant Health is here to make sure pain, fear or uncertainty never stand in the way of living fully. Movement matters, and with the right support, people can continue doing the activities they love at every stage of life. 

What is Pickleball? 

Pickleball is a paddle sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It’s played on a smaller court with a solid paddle and a lightweight plastic ball. The compact court and simple rules make it easy for beginners to get started, while still offering enough movement and strategy to keep experienced players engaged. 

A man with short brown hair and a beard is wearing a light gray suit, a blue and white striped shirt, and a blue tie with white antler patterns, posing confidently as if ready for a pickleball match against a plain dark gray background.
Darren Barton, DO Fellowship‑Trained in Sports Medicine

Many people are drawn to pickleball because it feels approachable. The court becomes a daily gathering place for friends because:  

  • Shoulder soreness 
  • Wrist or elbow irritation 

“As participation increases, we’re seeing more preventable injuries,” says Darren Barton, DO, fellowship-trained Sports Medicine Physician with Covenant Health’s Cumberland Orthopedics in Crossville, TN. “Keeping you active so you can enjoy an improved quality of life is essential. And we are here to support you.” 

Early evaluation and the right guidance can often ease pain, restore motion and help prevent minor issues from becoming long-term problems. 

Simple Ways to Protect Your Body 

Before you step onto the court, consider these easy ways to support your body: 

  • Warm up before you play 
  • Wear supportive athletic shoes 
  • Ease into activity if you’re new or returning after time away 
  • Take breaks when you feel tired 
  • Stop if something doesn’t feel right 

Care that Supports Lifelong Movement 

Covenant Health connects orthopedic care and Covenant Health Therapy Centers together to support active lifestyles at every stage. Whether you’re preventing injury, recovering from pain or rebuilding confidence after time away from activity, our teams work together to support your life. 

Two men play pickleball outdoors on a sunny day. One is lunging forward to hit a blue ball with his paddle while the other stands poised behind him, both smiling and wearing sunglasses. Trees and lights are visible in the background.

With Covenant Health, you have access to: 

  • Education to help prevent future injuries 
  • Support that helps reduce fear and build confidence in movement 

Keep Moving with Covenant Health 

Pickleball is a great way to stay active and keep moving. With trusted orthopedic care and therapy support from Covenant Health, you can continue playing and enjoying the activities you love. 

If pain, soreness or uncertainty are slowing you down, Covenant Health is here to help you take the next step forward. If you’re ready to feel and move better, check out a Covenant Health Therapy Center today. Many insurances even allow you to self‑refer. 

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