Pickleball – it's the fastest-growing sport in America, offering a fun, social way to stay active. But with all that overhead smashing and backhand volleying, a common foe can emerge: pickleball elbow.
Just like its cousin, tennis elbow, pickleball elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is an overuse injury that causes pain on the outside of the elbow. It stems from inflammation of the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the elbow bone. The pain can make gripping your paddle uncomfortable, hindering your game and enjoyment.
The KT Tape Advantage for Pickleball Elbow
While tennis elbow grabs the spotlight, pickleball players face the same vulnerability. The good news is, the solution used for tennis elbow – KT Tape – is just as effective for pickleball elbow!
KT Tape is kinesiology tape that provides targeted support and pain relief.
By applying the tape strategically, we can:
- Improve proprioception: KT Tape stimulates the nervous system, enhancing your body awareness around the elbow joint. This can help prevent overextension and give your body signals to help you improve your technique, and may help you reduce the risk of further injury.
- Reduce pain: The tape helps to lift the inflamed tissues slightly, improving blood flow and promoting a natural healing process. This can lead to noticeable pain relief and improved function.
- Enhance support: KT Tape provides light and flexible support, helping stabilize the muscles and tendons around the elbow. This can support the injured area and allow you to play with greater confidence, without the restriction of using a brace or sleeve.
- Moves with your body: No athlete wants to feel restricted in movement, or have extra weight or sweat-causing materials hindering their play. KT Tape is well-known for moving with your skin. The elastic fibers and cores used in KT Tape are incredibly flexible, once the tape is properly applied you'll probably forget that you even have it on - not only because it is light and flexible, but because your pain will be reduced and your mind can focus back on the game.
Applying KT Tape for Pickleball Elbow
Here's how to apply KT Tape for pickleball elbow relief (watch a video demonstration for a more detailed visual guide):
What you'll need:
- KT Tape - use our helpful taping guide to pick the right type for you
- Yes - it's really that simple!
Steps:
- Prep your skin: Clean and dry the area around your elbow. KT Tape can stay on through sweat, heat, and motion, but lotions or sunscreen can interfere with the adhesive. Make sure to be clean and dry when applying the tape, then bring on the sweat after it is in place.
- Anchor-Stretch-Anchor each strip: Apply the anchor (1st 2 inches of a strip) without stretch, do light stretch in the middle section of the tape, then finish the last anchor (2 inches) without any stretch.
- Follow the illustrated guide found here or within our easy to use, FREE mobile app.
- Rub the tape firmly to activate the adhesive.
Listen to Your Body
While KT Tape can significantly improve your pickleball experience, it's crucial to listen to your body. If the pain persists or worsens, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Get Back on the Court Faster with KT Tape
Don't let pickleball elbow sideline your fun! KT Tape offers a safe and effective way to manage pain and get back to enjoying the sport you love. So grab your paddle, apply your KT Tape, and ace your next match!
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