on September 30, 2025
Author: Richard Gardner
Lets talk Pickleball
Pickleball has exploded in popularity, and for good reason! This fun, social, and low-impact sport is a fantastic way for older adults to stay active and find out more HERE.
It's a great cardio workout, helps improve balance and coordination, and provides a wonderful opportunity for social connection. However, with any physical activity, the risk of injury is always a concern see more HERE.
Muscle strains, sprains, and joint pain can quickly sideline you. Fortunately, a tool like kinesiology tape, and specifically Locked In Sports Tape, can help you stay on the court longer and more comfortably.
See this video for how to use HERE - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Rghlv5p-QE
Why Pickleball Is a Winning Sport for Seniors
Before we dive into the benefits of taping, let's look at why pickleball is such a perfect fit for the senior community.
The game combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, but on a smaller court, which means less running and stress on your joints. The quick, strategic movements engage your mind, improving cognitive function, while the rallies get your heart pumping.
The social atmosphere is also a huge plus, helping to combat loneliness and build community.
However, the sport's rapid changes in direction, quick steps, and repetitive motions can lead to common injuries, including:
- Wrist and hand injuries: Often from falls or repetitive paddle swinging.
- Knee and ankle sprains: Due to sudden stops and lateral movements.
- "Pickleball elbow": Similar to tennis elbow, this is an overuse injury from repetitive strain.
Here are some links you may find helpful -
UC Davis Health
Pickleball PT
This is where a product like Locked In Sports Tape can make a huge difference.
The Power of Locked In Sports Tape for Pickleball Players
Unlike traditional, rigid athletic tape that restricts movement, Locked In Sports Tape is a type of kinesiology tape.
It’s designed to provide dynamic support, mimicking the elasticity of your skin. This means it moves with your body, so you get the benefits of support without feeling restricted.
Here's how it helps older athletes:
1. Joint Stability and Injury Prevention
The elastic nature of Locked In Sports Tape provides proprioceptive support. That's a fancy word for your body's awareness of where its parts are in space. By gently lifting the skin, the tape sends signals to your brain, enhancing your joint stability and improving your form. This can help prevent common injuries like ankle twists and knee hyperextension during those quick pickleball volleys.
2. Pain Relief and Swelling Reduction
When applied correctly, kinesiology tape creates a subtle lift in the skin, which can help increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage. This process can significantly reduce pain and swelling in injured or overworked areas like the shoulder, wrist, or knee. It helps take the pressure off pain receptors, allowing you to focus on your game, not your discomfort.
3. Muscle Support and Enhanced Performance
Playing for an extended period can lead to muscle fatigue. Locked In Sports Tape provides support to tired muscles, helping them to maintain proper alignment and function. This can improve your endurance and reduce the strain on overworked areas, letting you play a full match without feeling completely drained.
4. Aiding Recovery
Beyond the court, the benefits of Locked In Sports Tape continue. The tape can be worn for several days, providing continuous support and promoting the natural healing process. This is especially useful for managing conditions like tendonitis or mild sprains, helping you recover faster so you can get back to the game you love.
Here are some links you may find helpful -
Nextlevelphysiotherapy
The Chiropractic Doctors
How to Apply Kinesiology Tape for Pickleball
For best results, it's important to apply the K-tape correctly. The K-tape should be applied to clean, dry skin. Here are some common applications for pickleball players:
- For the Wrist: A common technique involves a few strips to support the joint and a single strip along the forearm to support the muscles.
- For the Knee: Strips can be placed around the patella (kneecap) to provide support and stability.
- For the Ankle: Taping around the ankle can provide stability and help prevent sprains.
A quick search for "kinesiology tape for pickleball" will give you many instructional videos and guides. Remember to consult a healthcare professional, like a physical therapist, for personalized advice and taping techniques.
To view our full range of sports tape click HERE
Play On!
Pickleball offers a fantastic way for older adults to stay healthy and active. While it's a relatively safe sport, taking preventative measures is key to long-term enjoyment. By incorporating tools like Locked In Sports Tape into your routine, you can give yourself the extra support and confidence you need to keep swinging that paddle for years to come.
Disclaimer: While the information provided is based on research and common practices in sports medicine, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or athletic trainer, before using athletic tape for injury prevention or management.
