10 Best Pickleball Paddles For Tennis Elbow 2024[Tested]

Pickleball is all about pleasure and joy, a delightful escape from the ordinary. But if that persistent elbow pain has led you to the doctor’s clinic, it’s time for a game-changing move – finding the best pickleball paddles for tennis elbow.

Sure, selecting a new arm-friendly paddle is typically a difficult and time taking process for any player, but for those grappling with the discomfort of tennis elbow, it’s more than a choice – it’s a necessity.

Let’s be real – elbow pain is no laughing matter. It’s not just about the discomfort; it’s the potential sidelining from our beloved pickleball haven. The nightmare of being unable to indulge in your favorite sport is, well, a nightmare for any pickleball enthusiast.

So, let’s transform this paddle search into more than just a fun process. It’s a crucial step to ensure you can return to the court, pain-free and ready to savor every moment of your best game. It’s time to discover that paddle that’s not just a game-changer but a genuine elbow-saver. Here’s to a pain-free and joy-filled return to the court!

What is a Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, medically termed lateral epicondylitis or enthesopathy of the extensor carpi radialis origin, is a condition characterized by pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. This discomfort arises from an enthesopathy, specifically affecting the attachment point of the extensor carpi radialis brevis on the lateral epicondyle.

2-Main Causes of Pickleball Elbow

Tennis elbow primarily occurs due to the excessive use of the forearm in repetitive or strenuous activities. Additionally, it can occur after a direct impact or trauma to the elbow. When the muscles in the forearm are strained, it may lead to the development of tiny tears and inflammation near the bony lump (lateral epicondyle) on the outer side of the elbow. The causes of pickleball elbow include the following:

1. Previous Injury

If you’ve experienced elbow injury before, the likelihood of encountering the same issue increases. Hence, preventing pickleball elbow is preferable to managing the painful consequences when it arises. Pickleball players can benefit from a combination of strategies to alleviate the pain initially and then take preventive measures to avoid its recurrence.

2. Vibration

When a ball connects with the paddle, transferring energy in the form of vibration, it travels through the paddle, down the handle to the hand and wrist joints, up the forearm muscles, and into the elbow, eventually reaching the entire arm and shoulder.

When repetitive impact is focused on the bony knob at the side of the elbow, the likelihood of injury or re-injury rises. Top-notch paddle brands emphasize the “sweet spot,” a prime location on the paddle designed to absorb shock and minimize vibration, reducing the risk of the burning pain associated with tennis elbow.

However, given the dynamic nature of pickleball play, hitting shots all over the paddle face is inevitable for every player. You should choose the best pickleball paddle to reduce vibration for playing pickleball.

Tennis Elbow vs. Pickleball Elbow

Let’s clear the air right away: if you’re feeling pain, head to the doctor. He can precisely diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment for your pickleball elbow. The longer you delay seeking medical advice, the more likely the pain will persist and potentially worsen. Early intervention, especially in the initial stages of tennis or pickleball elbow, increases the chances of a quicker recovery.

Now, the terms “tennis elbow” and “pickleball elbow” essentially refer to the same issue, and we use them interchangeably. Doctors, with their medical school knowledge, call it “lateral epicondylitis” because, well, that’s the technical name for it.

Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow both involve injured tendons, but they affect different ones, leading to potentially distinct recovery approaches. If you participate in various sports engaging the elbow area, it can be challenging to identify the issue accurately.

In such cases, rely on the expertise of a doctor, utilizing their medical degree to provide a precise diagnosis and recommend the most suitable recovery plan for your condition. Trust the professionals to guide you through the specifics of your situation.

7-Ways to Prevent Pickleball Elbow

1. Rest And Ice

To address pickleball elbow, it’s crucial to implement effective rest and ice strategies. First and foremost, provide your elbow with ample time to recover by minimizing activities that strain the affected area. This involves avoiding repetitive motions or any actions that may exacerbate the condition. Additionally, incorporating ice therapy is highly beneficial.

Applying ice to the affected area aids in reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. It’s recommended to use an ice pack for approximately 15-20 minutes at a time, multiple times throughout the day. This combination of rest and ice serves as a fundamental approach to easing discomfort and promoting the healing process for pickleball elbow.

2. Doctor Prescribed Meds

When it comes to managing the discomfort associated with pickleball elbow, various medications can provide relief from inflammation and alleviate pain, at least on a temporary basis. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can be effective in reducing swelling and easing pain.

However, it’s essential to note that while these medications address the symptoms, they may not necessarily solve the underlying cause of tennis elbow that pickleball players experience.

Seeking professional guidance is crucial to determine the root cause and develop a comprehensive plan for both symptom management and addressing the core issue contributing to the condition.

3. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

To effectively address pickleball elbow, a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles is instrumental. Incorporating gentle stretching routines into your regimen contributes to enhanced flexibility and the alleviation of tension in the affected area.

These stretches can target specific muscles, promoting a greater range of motion and reducing strain. Additionally, the gradual introduction of strengthening exercises is paramount in building resilience in the muscles associated with pickleball elbow.

Seeking guidance from a physiotherapist is advisable to ensure the exercises are tailored to your condition, allowing for targeted and effective strengthening that aids in the recovery process.

4. Bracing Buy an Elbow Brace

Implementing a brace or support is a valuable strategy in managing pickleball elbow. This supportive device plays a crucial role in providing stability to the affected elbow, effectively reducing strain during various physical activities.

By offering additional support to the injured area, a brace contributes to maintaining proper alignment and limiting excessive movement that could exacerbate the condition. Whether engaging in pickleball or other daily activities, the use of a brace proves beneficial in minimizing stress on the affected elbow and fostering a more controlled and supported range of motion.

There are many high-quality braces on the market. You can purchase it to save yourself from tennis elbow.

Braces With High-Quality Material

5. Gear Examination

Now is the important moment to evaluate your equipment. Consider making subtle adjustments to your pickleball paddle and grip to alleviate strain on your protesting elbow. The way you interact with your equipment can significantly impact the stress exerted on your elbow during gameplay.

Whether it’s refining the grip size, adjusting the weight of the paddle, or experimenting with different materials, these tweaks aim to create a setup that minimizes the strain on your elbow, ensuring a more comfortable and sustainable playing experience.

Taking the time to tailor your equipment to suit your specific needs can be a game-changer in mitigating the challenges posed by pickleball elbow.

6. Physical Therapy

Your doctor may suggest undergoing a course of physical therapy (PT) to address pickleball elbow. Physical therapists are experts in managing sports injuries, and they can devise a tailored series of rehabilitation exercises designed to alleviate pain and promote healing.

The added advantage is the accessibility of PT facilities, which are now widely available in convenient locations. However, it’s essential to confirm whether your chosen PT center accepts your insurance to ensure smooth proceedings.

It’s worth noting that, similar to medication and rest, physical therapy primarily addresses symptoms rather than the root cause of pickleball elbow. Seeking comprehensive solutions that delve into the underlying causes is essential for a more sustainable recovery.

7. Surgery(Last Option)

As a last and final option, surgery is contemplated as a solution for addressing pickleball elbow. Your sports medicine professional is the best resource to assess your condition and determine whether surgery is even a consideration.

Typically, surgery is seen as a last option, reserved for cases where conservative treatments and therapies have proven ineffective, and the severity of the condition necessitates more invasive intervention.

Trusting the expertise of your sports medicine specialist ensures that you receive the most accurate assessment and tailored recommendations for your specific case, with surgery considered only when all other avenues have been explored.

Finding the Best Pickleball Paddle for Tennis Elbow

Addressing the core problem of pickleball elbow involves exploring various avenues, and one fundamental aspect to consider is the paddle.

1. Choose the Right Paddle Weight

When searching for the ideal pickleball paddle to enhance your game, numerous factors come into play, as detailed in our Buying Guide. However, one crucial consideration, particularly when dealing with pickleball elbow, is the weight of the paddle.

Similar to Captain James T. Kirk’s pursuit of more power for his ship’s engines on Star Trek, many pickleball players seek greater power by opting for a heavier paddle. While a heavier paddle indeed contributes to increased power (unlike Captain Kirk’s ship), the tradeoff may manifest as tennis elbow, primarily due to heightened vibration, especially on off-center shots.

Balancing the quest for power with the potential impact on elbow health becomes paramount in choosing the right paddle weight for your pickleball game.

2. First Paddle Issues

For a beginner, the misconception of desiring power from a heavier paddle is common, even for a tennis player transitioning to pickleball. However, this belief is often a mistake. It’s crucial to understand that even a difference of just a couple of ounces can significantly impact the dynamics of pickleball paddles.

Rather than equating power with weight, beginners should prioritize paddle control and maneuverability. A lighter paddle allows for better handling, quicker reaction times, and reduced strain on the elbow, making it a more suitable choice for those starting their pickleball journey.

3. Heavy Paddle Defined

The pickleball paddles weighing 8.5 ounces or more are categorized as heavy paddles. To determine the official weight of a paddle, brands typically provide this information in their product descriptions.

Understanding these weight classifications is crucial for players, as it allows them to make informed decisions based on their preferences and playing style, especially when considering the impact on factors like power, control, and potential strain on the elbow.

4. Lightweight Paddle

As we navigate the pickleball paddle landscape, the choice between heavy and lightweight options introduces a layer of complexity. While heavy paddles pose challenges for tennis elbow, opting for an excessively lightweight alternative may not be the panacea we seek.

Weighing in at a mere 7.2 ounces or less, these lightweight pickleball paddles emerge as champions of ball control, making them a magnet for novice players. The fluidity of their swing and the increased freedom for wrist movements are distinct advantages.

However, the compromise lies in their reduced power generation. Players wielding lightweight paddles might unconsciously compensate by swinging harder, inadvertently elevating the risk of generating vibrations, especially when veering away from the sweet spot.

Achieving the delicate equilibrium in paddle weight becomes paramount, ensuring an optimal blend of control, power, and elbow comfort on the pickleball court.

5. Conclusion about Light Weight Paddle

While a lightweight pickleball paddle is a step in the right direction for mitigating tennis elbow concerns, it might not be the optimal solution. This brings us to the importance of considering a mid-weight paddle for a more balanced approach.

6. Advantages of a Mid-Weight Paddle

a. A Lot Of Options

Recognizing the varied preferences of pickleball players, the weight range between 7.3 ounces and 8.4 ounces is widely acknowledged as the ideal middle ground by many brands. This mid-weight range offers a balanced compromise, meeting the diverse needs of players.

The market boasts an abundance of choices within this weight range, providing players with a multitude of options to explore. Moreover, for those who value aesthetics, a diverse selection of colors and designs is available to align with individual preferences and add a personalized touch to the pickleball court.

b. Balance of Power and Control

A medium-weight paddle embodies the equilibrium that suits the needs of many players. Typically, these paddles offer more power than their lighter counterparts and greater control compared to heavier alternatives. Numerous brands specifically design mid-sized paddles to address pickleball elbow concerns by effectively managing vibrations before they reach the player’s arm.

This thoughtful approach enhances the overall playing experience, making mid-weight paddles a popular choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of power, control, and injury prevention on the pickleball court.

c. Full Range of Prices

While solid wooden paddles, often more affordable, can be challenging for tennis elbow, there’s a noteworthy alternative in affordable pickleball paddles featuring a honeycomb core. The honeycomb core plays a crucial role in vibration absorption, and various paddles utilize different materials for their cores.

Shopping solely based on price is usually a mistake, although budget considerations are valid for everyone. It’s essential to prioritize paddles that encompass all the features you desire. While price can become a tiebreaker in the final decision, ensuring the paddle aligns with your preferences and requirements is paramount for an optimal playing experience, especially in addressing concerns like tennis elbow.

Have the Correct Pickleball Paddle Grip Size?

During the process of selecting a pickleball paddle, you’ll encounter several grip sizes to choose from, although the options are not as extensive as those available when choosing a tennis grip size.

The paddle’s grip size is a crucial factor in ensuring a comfortable and secure hold, contributing significantly to your overall playing experience on the pickleball court.

Standard Grip Sizing Techniques

Similar to tennis, determining the right pickleball paddle grip size is optimal when you can comfortably place your index finger between the end of your fingers and the palm of your hand while gripping the paddle. This index finger test serves as a reliable measure. However, due to the limited choices in grip sizes, you might find yourself in between sizes.

Selecting the correct grip size is crucial for addressing tennis elbow, and an improper size could exacerbate the issue, potentially making it much worse. In such cases, it’s advisable to opt for smaller grips and then build up the grip to reach your ideal size.

This do-it-yourself (DIY) process is straightforward, and the necessary grip materials are readily available, ensuring a customized and comfortable grip tailored to your specific needs.

Outstanding Pickleball Paddle Grip

Be Careful of Paddle Length

The standard-size paddle head, commonly seen, proves to be suitable for addressing tennis elbow problems. While there are slightly longer and more narrow options available in the market, designed for more advanced players, they come with a smaller ideal strike spot.

This smaller sweet spot is beneficial for advanced players who are more likely to hit it consistently. However, for the average or beginning player, the longer length and smaller sweet spot can contribute to increased vibration.

For the average player, hitting a ball off the edge guard of these paddles is more likely to worsen tennis elbow. Experts typically avoid such situations when playing pickleball, recognizing the impact these design features can have on injury prevention and overall playing comfort.

Top 10 Best Pickleball Paddles for Tennis Elbow and Arm-Friendly

Here are the 10 best pickleball paddles to reduce vibration and are arm-friendly:-

1. Prokennex Pro Flight

Ranked as the top choice for tennis elbow relief, the ProKennex Pro Flight stands out as the go-to paddle in this category. ProKennex consistently dominates discussions about paddles for tennis elbow issues. While its prevalence is specific to this context, it may not feature as prominently in broader industry conversations.

Opting for the Pro Flight ensures a quick, reliable choice straight out of the box, making it a top contender for those seeking immediate relief. However, exploring alternative options with adjusted weight, non-vibrating features, and grip customization could offer a personalized fit for players with specific preferences.

Ultimately, the choice depends on finding the right balance between addressing tennis elbow concerns and meeting individual gameplay needs.

2. Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro

Claiming the number four spot for tennis elbow relief is the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro, hailed as the optimal choice for ex-tennis players. While the speaker is not an ex-tennis player personally, they’ve observed a consistent preference for this paddle among those transitioning from tennis, both in their own experiences and online research.

Acknowledging their personal bias towards other sports, the speaker still recognizes the Tempest Wave Pro’s popularity and recommends it for demo purposes, especially if you’re transitioning from a tennis background. The paddle’s appeal lies in its design, catering specifically to ex-tennis players, making it a noteworthy contender in the realm of pickleball paddles for tennis elbow relief.

3. Franklin Aspen Kern Centre

Displaying the Franklin Aspen Kern Centre Pickleball Paddle – a game-changer in pickleball innovation. With MaxGrit technology for maximum spin and reduced vibration, this USAPA-approved paddle boasts a 13mm polypropylene core and carbon fiber surface for strength.

The oversized sweet spot ensures dependable, effortless shots. Certified for USAPA competitive play, it’s not just a paddle; it’s a commitment to excellence on the court. Elevate your game with the Aspen Kern Centre – celebrating one year of unmatched performance.

4. ProKennex Ovation Flight

Experience the pinnacle of power and control with the ProKennex Ovation Flight Pickleball Paddle. Boasting Proprietary Kinetic technology, this paddle eliminates harmful shock and vibration upon contact, reducing fatigue and soreness in the wrist, elbow, and shoulder.

Not just a paddle, but a safeguard against injury. The Cloud Core technology ensures more power to your swings by reducing paddle weight. Coupled with a Proprietary Diamond Frost micro texture coating, enjoy optimal spin with every contact.

Approved for sanctioned tournament play by the USAPA, the Ovation Flight is your ticket to a perfect blend of performance and precision on the court.

5. Selkirk Amped S2

Ranking among our top 10 pickleball paddles for tennis elbow is the Selkirk Amped S2. While the speaker personally favors the Selkirk Halo, a paddle with comparable pricing and exceptional specifications, they acknowledge the Amped S2’s prevalence in tennis elbow discussions. This popularity could stem from its accessibility and suitability for older players due to its varied shapes.

For enthusiasts of Selkirk paddles seeking options catering to tennis elbow concerns, exploring both the Amped S2 and the Halo is recommended. This allows for a comprehensive comparison, ensuring you find the ideal paddle that suits your needs, preferences, and gameplay style within the Selkirk range.

6. ENGAGE PURSUIT

Securing the position among our top 10 best pickleball paddles for tennis elbow is the highly popular Engage Pursuit. Recognized as the next best overall option, this paddle stands out for its impressive performance, catering to both overall gameplay and tennis elbow concerns.

While the speaker acknowledges Engage Pursuit’s slightly higher price point compared to other options, they attribute this to Engage’s usual pricing strategy. Despite this consideration, the Pursuit aligns with the trend of top picks in terms of specifications, offering a sweet spot with the desired weight and stats for optimal gameplay and tennis elbow relief.

For players seeking a top-tier paddle with a focus on tennis elbow comfort, the Engage Pursuit emerges as a strong contender within the competitive landscape of pickleball paddles.

7. JOOLA RADIUS

Joola Radius has a remarkable background due to its qualities among 10 best pickleball paddles for tennis elbow – recognized as the ideal choice for ex-table tennis players. This paddle not only stands out as a great option independently but also caters specifically to those transitioning from the world of table tennis.

The inclusion of the Joola Radius on various lists underscores its overall excellence, making it a double win for its versatility and player-specific benefits. Joola’s mastery in the realm of table tennis products has seamlessly translated into the pickleball world with the Radius, showcasing a design perfected through their expertise in the ping pong arena.

For players with a background in table tennis seeking a paddle that mirrors the precision and quality synonymous with Joola, the Radius emerges as a top-tier choice for both its standalone performance and its relevance to ex-table tennis players making the switch to pickleball.

8. GAMMA COMPASS

GAMMA COMPASS is also known best pickleball paddle for tennis elbow relief, the Gamma Compass emerges as the premier elongated option, offering extended reach for players.

Widely recommended for both its affordability and versatility, it’s favored by older ex-tennis players seeking an extended arm on the court. This paddle, known for its flexibility, can be easily weighted up to meet desired specifications, providing a cost-effective solution for those looking to enhance their gameplay.

9. Joola Ben Johns Hyperion 16MM

At number nine, the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion 16mm stands out as a personal favorite for tennis elbow relief. It boasts a heavy weight, thick grip, and close dimensions. Despite being head-heavy out of the box, it becomes advantageous when weighted closer to the grip.

While not the best off-the-shelf option, its association as the signature paddle of the top player in the game adds to its appeal.

10. WILSON Pickleball Paddles

The Wilson Juice Pickleball Paddle blends a sleek design with formidable power. Featuring printed spin tech for increased ball rotation, players gain the confidence to execute powerful shots.

The wide body shape ensures a generous sweet spot, while the core dampens vibrations, delivering a smooth playing experience. USAPA approval attests to its competitive quality.

Top 10 Best Pickleball Paddles For Tennis Elbow 2024

Here are some excellent Top 5 arm-friendly and best pickleball paddles for tennis elbow selected by our team from 83 paddles for you.

• Prokennex Pro Flight
• PADDLETEK TEMPEST WAVE PRO
• ENGAGE PURSUIT
• JOOLA RADIUS
• Joola Ben Johns Hyperion 16MM

Conclusion

These best pickleball paddles for tennis elbow are best chosen and arm-friendly, especially for both beginners and pro and well-experienced players. This above-referred curated list is designed to guide you effectively in choosing the right and best pickleball paddle for tennis elbow that can aid in alleviating pain.

It’s essential to pay attention to the considerations discussed earlier, such as opting for a heavier paddle (without being head-heavy), a thicker grip, and effective vibration control. Even if you deviate slightly from this list, keeping these factors in mind will help you make a sound choice and ensure a positive playing experience. At the end of this article, hope you have got the answer to your question “What Pickleball Paddle is Best for Tennis Elbow?“