🏓 Pickleball Pains? How Massage Helps Rec Players Stay in the Game

If you’ve seen me on the court, paddle in hand and smile on my face, you already know—I’m a big fan of pickleball. It’s fast, fun, social, and addictive (in the best way). But like any physical activity, especially one with sudden stops, quick pivots, and repetitive motions, it can take a toll on your body if you’re not careful.

That’s where massage—especially remedial massage—comes in.

💪 Common Pickleball Aches & What They Mean

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a daily doubles enthusiast, you might have experienced:

• Shoulder tightness from overhand smashes or awkward returns

• Lower back tension from sudden directional changes

• Calf or Achilles strain from quick bursts across the court

• Forearm fatigue from gripping the paddle a little too tightly (hello, pickleball elbow!)

These aren’t just “part of the game”—they’re signals from your body asking for support and recovery.

👐 How Remedial Massage Helps

As a qualified remedial massage therapist (and someone who has definitely limped off the court before), I tailor each session to target the muscles most commonly affected in pickleball. Here’s how massage helps:

• Releases tension in overworked areas like shoulders and hips

• Improves circulation, helping flush out inflammation and speed healing

• Enhances flexibility so you can move more freely and react faster

• Reduces pain and supports recovery after long rallies or tournaments

🙌 Prevention Is Just as Important

Massage isn’t just for recovery—regular sessions can help prevent injuries by maintaining healthy muscle balance and spotting tightness before it turns into a strain.

Plus, it gives you that extra edge of focus and relaxation. When your body feels good, your game improves. (And who doesn’t want to be the player everyone wants on their team?)

🧘‍♀️ Your Game Plan for Self-Care

If you’re active in the Hervey Bay pickleball community—or just starting out—consider booking a monthly remedial massage to stay ahead of the niggles and nagging soreness. And don’t worry, I won’t judge your paddle grip, but I mightask how your last match went while I ease out those shoulder knots. 😉