Summer is peak season for outdoor sports—and in recent years, two of the biggest drivers of foot and ankle injuries are pickleball and tennis. Both sports are fast-paced, high-impact, and deceptively demanding on the lower body. Even recreational players are seeing more sprains, strains, and overuse injuries as participation continues to climb.
At Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Associates, we’re seeing a clear trend: more summer sports activity is directly linked to more foot and ankle injuries.
Why Summer Sports Put Extra Stress on Your Feet
Pickleball and tennis may look low-impact compared to running or contact sports, but they involve quick stops, sudden direction changes, and explosive movement. That combination puts significant strain on the feet and ankles.
Common stress points include:
- Rapid pivoting on hard court surfaces
- Sudden acceleration and deceleration
- Repetitive jumping or lunging
- Uneven weight distribution during play
When your feet absorb this force repeatedly, even small imbalances can turn into injury.
The Most Common Summer Foot and Ankle Injuries
1. Ankle Sprains
One of the most frequent injuries in both tennis and pickleball. Quick lateral movements can cause the ankle to roll inward or outward, stretching or tearing ligaments.
2. Plantar Fasciitis Flare-Ups
Repeated court impact can irritate the plantar fascia, leading to sharp heel pain—especially after rest or first steps in the morning.
3. Achilles Tendon Strain
Explosive pushes off the toes place heavy stress on the Achilles tendon, increasing the risk of inflammation or micro-tears.
4. Stress Injuries
Overuse without proper conditioning can lead to stress reactions or fractures in the foot, especially in players who ramp up activity quickly in summer.
Why Pickleball Has Increased Injury Rates
Pickleball has exploded in popularity, especially among adults returning to recreational sports. While it’s often considered “gentle,” it actually involves:
- Short court distance (leading to constant movement)
- Fast reaction times
- Sudden stops and pivots
- Minimal warm-up in casual play
This combination is a perfect setup for ankle sprains and overuse injuries—especially for players who haven’t been active year-round.
Tennis Injuries: Still a Summer Classic Problem
Tennis continues to be one of the most common sports-related causes of foot and ankle injuries. Hard courts, long rallies, and aggressive footwork place continuous pressure on the lower extremities.
Players often experience pain due to:
- Improper footwear with poor lateral support
- Lack of conditioning before summer play
- Overuse after long breaks from the sport
Even experienced athletes can develop injuries when returning too quickly in the season.
How to Protect Your Feet During Summer Sports
The good news: most sports-related foot injuries are preventable.
Here’s how to reduce your risk:
- Warm up before playing (especially calves and ankles)
- Wear supportive court shoes designed for lateral movement
- Avoid sudden increases in playing time or intensity
- Strengthen ankles and lower legs with simple exercises
- Replace worn-out shoes regularly
- Rest if you feel early signs of pain or instability
Ignoring small discomfort often leads to longer recovery times later.
When to See a Podiatrist
You should get evaluated if you experience:
- Persistent heel or arch pain after playing
- Swelling around the ankle
- Repeated ankle rolling or weakness
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Difficulty walking after sports
Early treatment can prevent chronic issues and help you return to activity faster.
Get Back in the Game Safely
If foot or ankle pain is keeping you off the court this summer, Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Associates can help diagnose and treat sports-related injuries so you can get back to doing what you enjoy.
To schedule an appointment, call (405) 794-6691 for the Moore office or (405) 340-9251 for the Edmond office, or request a consultation through our website. Our team is here to help you stay active, recover properly, and prevent future injuries—so you can keep enjoying every game this summer.
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