Padel is an energetic and fast-paced sport that is gaining popularity due to its accessible nature and the fun it offers. However, as with any sport, there is a risk of injury, especially due to the intense and repetitive movements that players perform. In this blog, we discuss the most common padel injuries and give advice on how to prevent them.
Tennis elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition in which the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow become inflamed. This inflammation is often caused by repetitive movements of the wrist and arm, such as hitting a padel ball. Although the name suggests otherwise, tennis elbow does not only occur in tennis players; padel players are also at considerable risk.
Padel rackets vary greatly in their characteristics, including how arm-friendly they are. A hard padel racket causes more vibrations and shocks in the arm, which can increase the risk of tennis elbow. Rackets with a softer core, on the other hand, absorb vibrations better and offer more comfort, which helps to reduce the strain on the arm. Check out some of our arm-friendly padel rackets here.
Siux Fenix II Tecnifibre Wall Master 360 Dunlop Aero Star Lite
Ankle sprains
An ankle sprain is a common injury in padel, in which the ligaments around the ankle can become overstretched or even torn. This often happens due to sudden twisting movements, jumps, or incorrect landings in which the ankle twists inwards or outwards. To prevent ankle sprains, it is essential to wear the right shoes. Choose padel shoes that are specifically designed for this sport, with excellent cushioning and lateral support. These shoes help absorb sudden movements, reducing the risk of sprains. Below are some good options for the court.
Padel grip
The thickness of the grip also plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of tennis elbow. It is important to hold your racket firmly, but avoid squeezing too hard, as this can cause unnecessary strain on the tendons in your forearm. Consider placing an extra overgrip on your padel racket to experience the difference in grip pressure. A different base grip can also help. The Hesacore Tourgrip, for example, offers better grip and stability, allowing you to relax the muscles in your hand and forearm. This reduces muscle fatigue and lowers the risk of injury.
Wilson Overgrips X Grip Shock Out Grip
