The Padel Evolution: A Knee Surgeon’s Guide to Staying on Court
By Mr Gareth Stables, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at My Knee Doc
As a specialist knee surgeon at My Knee Doc, I’ve watched Padel take the UK by storm. It’s social, fast-paced, and incredibly addictive. However, its unique "tennis-meets-squash" dynamics—explosive sprints, sudden pivots, and repetitive overheads—place a specific set of demands on your musculoskeletal system that many players aren't prepared for.
Whether you're a seasoned regular or one of the thousands picking up a racket for the first time in 2026, this guide is designed to help you understand the orthopedic risks and keep your joints healthy.
Padel: The UK’s Fastest Growing Sport
The growth of Padel in the UK is explosive. As we move through 2026, the statistics highlight a sport that has firmly entered the mainstream:
- Mass Participation: From 15,000 players in 2019, the UK now boasts over 400,000 active participants.
- Infrastructure: There are now approximately 1,000 Padel courts across the UK, a tenfold increase since 2020.
- Demographics: Roughly 40% of players are women, and while the core age group is 26–50, we are seeing a massive rise in over-50s attracted by the doubles format.
- The Injury Reality: Research suggests an injury rate of 8 per 1,000 hours during competitive match play. Nearly 50% of players report some form of injury each season.
Schedule an Expert Review with Mr Gareth Stables
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Common Padel Injuries
In my clinic, I see a specific pattern of injuries. While the upper limbs are frequently affected, the lower limbs take the brunt of the explosive, multi-directional movement.
Lower Limb & Knee Risks
- Meniscal Tears: Sudden pivoting on a planted foot can catch the cartilage, leading to locking or swelling.
- Achilles Tendonitis: The constant "start-stop" nature of the game puts immense strain on the calf and heel.
- ACL Injuries: High-intensity changes of direction can put the Anterior Cruciate Ligament at risk if the core and glutes aren't engaged.
- Tennis Leg – Calf (Gastrocnemius) acute muscle tears, often occurring in players over 40 during a sudden push-off.
Upper Limb: Padel Elbow
| Injury Type | Common Area | Why It Happens |
| Padel Elbow | Lateral Epicondyle | Overuse of the wrist and forearm during backhands and off-center hits. |
| Rotator Cuff Strain | Shoulder | Repetitive overhead "Bandeja" and "Vibora" shots without proper shoulder stability. |
People Also Ask…
How do I prevent knee pain when playing Padel?
Focus on dynamic warm-ups and strengthening your glutes and hamstrings. Proper Padel-specific footwear is also essential to manage the grip-and-slide mechanics of the synthetic turf and sand.
When should I see a specialist for a Padel injury?
If you experience "locking" in the knee, persistent swelling, or a "popping" sensation followed by instability, you should seek an expert orthopedic review immediately to rule out structural damage.
Don't let a "minor niggle" become a season-ending injury.
Early intervention is the key to longevity on the court
Visit our specialist sports knee clinic serving Manchester, Cheshire, and the North West.
📞 Book Your Consultation Today: Call 0161 464 6399