Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports among adults and seniors and with that rise has come a sharp increase in foot and ankle injuries. At Sole Foot and Ankle Valparaiso, we’re seeing more patients come in with pickleball foot injuries.
One of the most common causes surprises many players: wearing running shoes instead of court shoes.
If you’re dealing with heel pain, ankle soreness, or a sudden injury after playing, your footwear may be putting you at risk for pickleball foot injuries.
Key Takeaways
- Running shoes are built for forward motion, not side-to-side movement
- Pickleball involves quick lateral shifts that stress the foot and ankle
- Wearing the wrong shoes raises the risk of ankle sprains and Achilles tendonitis
- Proper court shoes offer stability that helps prevent pickleball foot injuries
- A foot doctor can help address pain before it becomes a long-term problem
Why Pickleball Is Hard on Your Feet
Pickleball may look low-impact, but the movement pattern tells a different story. Players constantly:
- Shuffle sideways
- Pivot quickly
- Stop and start without warning
- Push off the forefoot during short bursts
These motions place repeated stress on the ankles, Achilles tendon, and mid foot. Without proper support, this stress adds up fast.
The Big Mistake: Wearing Running Shoes on the Court
Running shoes are designed for straight-ahead motion. Their structure works well for jogging but creates problems during pickleball play.
Here’s why running shoes increase pickleball foot injuries:
Narrow base
Running shoes often have a higher, narrower sole that makes the ankle less stable during lateral movement.
Soft cushioning
While comfortable, excessive cushioning reduces ground feel and balance, raising the chance of rolling an ankle.
Lack of lateral support
Running shoes don’t brace the sides of the foot, which is exactly where pickleball players need support.
This mismatch between shoe design and court movement is a major reason foot doctors are seeing more pickleball-related injuries.
Common Pickleball Foot Injuries We See
At Sole Foot and Ankle, these are the most frequent conditions linked to improper footwear:
Ankle Sprains
Side-to-side motion combined with unstable shoes makes ankle rolling far more likely.
Achilles Tendonitis
Repeated push-off movements strain the Achilles tendon, especially when shoes fail to control heel motion.
Forefoot Pain and Metatarsalgia
Improper pressure distribution can lead to burning or aching pain under the ball of the foot.
Plantar Fascia Strain
Lack of midfoot support may irritate the plantar fascia, leading to heel pain that lingers off the court.
Each of these falls under the broader category of pickleball foot injuries that often worsen when ignored.
Why Court Shoes Make a Difference
Court shoes are built for sports that involve lateral movement like tennis and pickleball.
They provide:
- A wider, flatter sole for stability
- Firmer sidewalls to control foot motion
- Better traction for quick stops
- Structured heel support to protect the Achilles
Switching to proper court shoes is one of the simplest ways to reduce your injury risk.
When to See a Foot Doctor
If pain lasts more than a few days, keeps returning after games, or affects how you walk, it’s time to see a foot doctor.
At Sole Foot and Ankle Valparaiso, Dr. Minhas evaluates:
- Footwear habits
- Gait and balance
- Tendon and joint health
- Injury patterns tied to pickleball
Early care can prevent a minor issue from becoming a season-ending injury.
A Note from Sole Foot and Ankle
Pickleball should keep you active; not sideline you with pain. Many pickleball foot injuries we treat could have been avoided with the right shoes and early guidance.
If you’re dealing with ankle pain, Achilles soreness, or foot discomfort after playing, our team is here to help you stay safe on the court. Contact us Today
Frequently Asked Questions
Can running shoes really cause pickleball foot injuries?
Yes. Running shoes lack the lateral support needed for pickleball’s side-to-side movement, which increases injury risk.
What shoes should I wear for pickleball?
Court shoes designed for tennis or pickleball offer better stability and ankle protection.
Is Achilles tendon pain common in pickleball players?
Very common—especially in players wearing shoes that don’t control heel movement.
Should I stop playing if my foot hurts?
Pain is a warning sign. Rest and evaluation by a foot doctor can prevent worsening injury.
Can orthotics help with pickleball foot injuries?
Custom orthotics can improve stability, reduce strain, and support proper foot motion during play.
