Best Pickleball Guide

If you have tennis elbow but still want to enjoy playing pickleball, choosing the right paddle can make a world of difference. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to help you find the best pickleball paddle for tennis elbow.

These paddles are designed to minimize strain on your arm and provide comfort during the game. By selecting right weight paddles, finding a comfortable grip size, and considering materials that balance power and control, you can play pickleball without exacerbating your tennis elbow.

Let’s explore some top options that will help you keep playing and having fun on the court!

If you are in hurry! Our top pick for the best pickleball paddle for tennis elbow is ProKennex Pickleball Paddles. These paddles are specially designed for the players who are suffering from tennis elbow to maximize their game on the court.

Let’s continue to understand what is tennis elbow or pickleball elbow. What to do if you are suffering from it. What type of paddles are best for elbow pain this complete guide will take your pickleball game to next level.

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a common condition that affects many people, even if they don’t play tennis or pickleball. It causes pain and discomfort on the outside of the elbow, making simple tasks like gripping objects or lifting things quite challenging. In medical terms, it is known as lateral epicondylitis.

Despite its name, you don’t have to be a tennis player to develop this condition. It can occur in anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles, especially in activities that involve gripping or twisting motions. This includes not just tennis players, but also painters, plumbers, carpenters, and even office workers who spend a lot of time typing on a computer.

The pain associated with tennis elbow is caused by the inflammation of the tendons that connect the muscles of your forearm to the bone on the outside of your elbow. These tendons are responsible for allowing you to extend your wrist and fingers. When you engage in repetitive movements or put excessive strain on these tendons, small tears can develop, leading to inflammation and pain.

What are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

The symptoms of tennis elbow are usually easy to recognize. You may experience pain or a burning sensation on the outer part of your elbow, which can radiate down your forearm. Simple actions like shaking hands, turning a doorknob, or even lifting a cup can become quite uncomfortable. In some cases, the affected area may also feel weak, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

What to do if you are suffering from Tennis Elbow?

If you suspect you have tennis elbow, it is important to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional will typically perform a physical examination and may order additional tests like X-rays or MRI scans to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. Once diagnosed, the good news is that tennis elbow is usually treatable and rarely requires surgery.

Treatment for tennis elbow usually involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and pain management techniques. Resting the affected arm and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain is crucial for allowing the tendons to heal.

Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility, while pain management techniques such as applying ice packs or taking over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief.

In severe cases or when conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, your doctor may consider other options like corticosteroid injections or, as a last resort, surgery. However, it is important to note that these interventions are typically reserved for rare cases, and most people find relief with non-surgical treatments.

The Impact of Pickleball on Elbow Health

The Mayo Clinic says that injuries happen where the muscles of the forearm connect to the outside of the elbow. This happens when the elbow is stressed by repeated movements.

Pickleball involves repetitive swinging motions of the paddle, particularly during serves, volleys, and smashes. These actions put stress on the tendons of the forearm, leading to microscopic tears and subsequent inflammation.

The risk of developing tennis elbow in pickleball is heightened when players continuously perform these movements without proper form, technique, or conditioning.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Players who develop tennis elbow in pickleball may experience pain, tenderness, and discomfort on the outer side of the elbow. This pain can radiate down the forearm, making gripping and lifting objects challenging. It is essential to recognize these symptoms early on to prevent the condition from worsening and to seek appropriate treatment.

How to Prevent and Manage Elbow Pain in Pickleball

While tennis elbow can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, there are steps that pickleball players can take to prevent and manage it effectively:

Warm-up and Stretching:

Prior to engaging in pickleball matches or practice sessions, it is crucial to warm up the muscles and perform stretching exercises specifically targeting the forearm muscles. This helps improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.

Proper Technique and Form:

Learning and practicing proper paddle technique, including grip and swing mechanics, can significantly reduce the strain on the tendons. Seek guidance from experienced players or coaches to ensure correct form.

Equipment Considerations:

Choosing the right paddle can make a difference in reducing stress on the forearm muscles. Opt for a paddle with appropriate weight, grip size, and cushioning to minimize the impact on the tendons.

Gradual Progression and Rest:

Avoid overexertion and allow ample rest and recovery time between pickleball sessions. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of play to give the muscles and tendons time to adapt and strengthen.

Strengthening and Conditioning:

Incorporating specific exercises that target the forearm muscles into your fitness routine can help build strength and endurance. Consult a healthcare professional or physical therapist for personalized exercises.

Protective Measures:

Consider wearing an elbow brace or compression sleeve during pickleball activities to provide support and alleviate strain on the tendons. These aids can also help in the recovery phase.

What to keep in mind before buying a best pickleball paddle for tennis eblow?

Before buying a pickleball paddle for tennis elbow, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Paddle Weight:

Opt for a lightweight paddle as it can help reduce strain on your arm and minimize the risk of aggravating your tennis elbow. Look for paddles made from materials like graphite or composite materials, as they tend to be lighter compared to heavier materials like wood.

Paddle Grip Size:

Choose a paddle with a grip size that feels comfortable in your hand. A grip that is too small may cause you to grip the paddle tightly, putting additional stress on your arm. Conversely, a grip that is too large may lead to a loss of control and increased strain. Consider trying out different grip sizes to find the one that suits you best.

Paddle Material:

The material of the paddle can impact its overall feel and performance. As mentioned earlier, lightweight materials like graphite or composite can be beneficial for reducing strain on your arm. Additionally, these materials often offer a good balance between power and control.

Paddle Shape:

Pickleball paddles come in various shapes, including traditional, elongated, and widebody shapes. Each shape has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your playing style and personal preference. Experimenting with different paddle shapes can help you find the one that suits your needs while minimizing stress on your arm.

Paddle Balance:

Paddles can be categorized as either head-heavy or evenly balanced. Head-heavy paddles offer more power, while evenly balanced paddles provide better control. Depending on the severity of your tennis elbow and your playing style, you may want to choose a paddle that offers a balance between power and control to avoid excessive strain on your arm.

Paddle Vibration Dampening:

Look for paddles that incorporate vibration dampening technologies or materials. These features can help absorb some of the shock and vibration generated during play, reducing the impact on your arm and minimizing discomfort.

Personal Testing:

Try out various pickleball paddles before buying one. Many sports equipment stores or pickleball clubs offer paddle demos or rentals, allowing you to test different options and see how they feel in your hand. This hands-on experience can be invaluable in finding the right paddle for your tennis elbow.

Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, so it’s essential to find a paddle that suits your specific needs and provides comfort during play. By considering these factors and seeking advice from experienced players or professionals, you can make an informed decision when choosing a pickleball paddle that is suitable for your tennis elbow.

What type of paddles are best for Elbow Pain?

When it comes to choosing the best paddle material for pickleball elbow, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer as preferences may vary. However, there are materials that tend to be more forgiving and gentle on the arm, potentially reducing the strain on your elbow. Here are a few paddle materials to consider:

Graphite:

Graphite paddles are popular among players with tennis elbow. They offer a lightweight construction that can help minimize stress on your arm. Graphite paddles also tend to have good vibration dampening properties, which can reduce the impact and discomfort on your elbow.

Composite:

Composite paddles are another excellent choice for pickleball elbow. They are typically made from a combination of materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, or polymer. Composite paddles offer a nice balance of power, control, and shock absorption, making them suitable for players seeking a comfortable playing experience.

Polypropylene Core:

The core material of the paddle can also impact how it feels on your arm. Paddles with a polypropylene core are known for their softness and ability to absorb shock. This can help reduce the strain on your elbow by providing a more forgiving impact surface.

Now lets jump to reviews for the best pickleball paddle for tennis eblow:

ProKennex Pickleball Paddles

Specifications:

• Paddle Face: Carbon Fiber (black ace), Fiberglass (flight, speed 2 and spin)
• Paddle Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb
• Paddle Shape: Black Ace (Standard), Flight (Elongated), Speed 2 (Wide Body), Spin (Teardrop)
• Paddle Weight: Black Ace (7.95 oz), Flight (7.6 – 8.0 oz), Speed 2 (7.5 – 8.0 oz), Spin (7.5 – 8.0 oz)
• Grip Size: 4 inches
• Grip Length: Black Ace (5 inches), Flight (5 inches), Speed 2 (4.5 inches), Spin (4.5 inches)
• Paddle Length: Black Ace (15.8 inches), Flight (16 inches), Speed 2 (15.75 inches), Spin (15.75 inches)
• Paddle Width: Black Ace (7.6 inches), Flight (7.75 inches), Speed 2 (8.25 inches), Spin (8 inches)
• Edge Guard: Yes
• USAPA Approved: Yes

Pros:

• Kinetic technology for shock and vibration absorption and arm protection
• Carbon fiber face for black ace for power and spin
• Fiberglass face for flight, speed 2 and spin for touch and control
• Large sweet spot and consistent bounce and feel
• Ergonomic grip for comfort and security

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other paddles
• May not suit players who prefer a different paddle shape or grip size

If you are looking for a pickleball paddle that can help you with tennis elbow, you might want to check out ProKennex Pickleball Paddles. These paddles are designed with Kinetic Technology, which reduces shock and vibration and protects your arm from injury. ProKennex is the only company that makes pickleball paddles that are made by more than one professional player.

ProKennex has four models of pickleball paddles: Black Ace, Flight, Speed 2 and Spin. Each model has its own features and benefits, but they all share the same Kinetic Technology and edgeless design.

Black Ace:

This is the first ever TORAY carbon fiber faced single piece paddle. It is a powerful yet versatile paddle that gives you excellent control and accuracy. It comes in two shapes: Ovation and Pro. The Ovation shape has a larger sweet spot and a longer handle, while the Pro shape has a smaller sweet spot and a shorter handle. Both shapes have a weight range of 7.6 to 8.0 oz.

Flight:

This is a lightweight paddle that offers great maneuverability and speed. It has a fiberglass face and a polymer core. It comes in two colors: Navy Blue/Green and Red/Black. It has an Ovation shape with a weight range of 7.2 to 7.6 oz.

Speed 2:

This is a medium-weight paddle that offers a balance of power and control. It has a fiberglass face and a polymer core. It comes in two colors: Orange/Forest Green and Purple/White. It has an Ovation shape with a weight range of 7.6 to 8.0 oz.

Spin:

This is a textured paddle that offers great spin and touch. It has a fiberglass face with a textured surface and a polymer core. It comes in one color: Black/Red. It has an Ovation shape with a weight range of 7.6 to 8.0 oz.

If you are looking for a pickleball paddle that can help you with tennis elbow, I highly recommend ProKennex Pickleball Paddles. They are worth every penny!

Paddletek Bantam EX-L Professional Pickleball Paddle

Specifications:

• Paddle Face: Velvet Textured Polycarbonate
• Paddle Core: Bantam PolyCore
• Paddle Shape: Standard
• Paddle Weight: 7.8 – 8.3 oz
• Grip Size: 4 1/4 inches
• Grip Length: 5 inches
• Paddle Length: 15 5/8 inches
• Paddle Width: 7 3/4 inches
• Edge Guard: Yes
• USAPA Approved: Yes

Pros:

• Smart Response Technology for explosive yet controlled hits
• Velvet textured polycarbonate surface for lasting spin and durability
• Bantam PolyCore for responsive returns and consistent bounce and feel
• Medium-weight and full-sized paddle for power and performance
• Low impact vibration dampening system for tennis elbow protection

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other paddles
• May be too heavy or large for some players
• May not suit players who prefer a different paddle shape or grip size

On number 2 we have Paddletek Bantam EX-L. If you are looking for a pickleball paddle that can give you power and performance, you might want to check out Paddletek Bantam EX-L Professional Pickleball Paddle. This paddle is part of the Bantam series, which has dominated championship courts since 2012.

It features the Smart Response Technology, which delivers explosive yet controlled hits, and a velvet textured polycarbonate surface, which gives you lasting spin.

Paddletek Bantam EX-L Professional Pickleball Paddle is a medium-weight paddle that weighs between 7.8 and 8.3 oz. It has a full-sized shape with a large sweet spot and a standard grip size. It has a high-tech polymer honeycomb core and an epoxy hybrid fiberglass face.

This paddle is also great for tennis elbow, because it has a low impact vibration dampening system that reduces shock and vibration and protects your arm from injury. It also has a balanced weight distribution that allows you to swing with ease and comfort.

If you are looking for a pickleball paddle that can give you power and performance, I highly recommend Paddletek Bantam EX-L Professional Pickleball Paddle. It is worth every penny!

We have reviewed some best pickleball paddles for small hands. Make sure to check them also.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Swift Pickleball Paddle

Specifications:

• Paddle Face: Carbon Friction
• Paddle Core: Reactive Honeycomb Polymer
• Paddle Shape: Swift (Elongated)
• Paddle Weight: 7.9 – 8.4 oz
• Grip Size: 4 1/4 inches
• Grip Length: 5.5 inches
• Paddle Length: 16.5 inches
• Paddle Width: 7.5 inches
• Edge Guard: Yes
• USAPA Approved: Yes

Pros:

• Swift technology for faster swing speed and stronger shots
• Carbon friction surface for durable, textured surface that provides maximum spin and power
• Reactive honeycomb polymer core for consistent bounce and feel and reduced vibration
• Hyper-foam edge wall for increased sweet spot and stability
• CX-forged handle for maximum flex and comfort

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other paddles

Next we have a pickleball paddle that can give you aggressive, offensive play, JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Swift Pickleball Paddle. This paddle is the signature paddle of World #1 Ben Johns, who designed it with JOOLA’s Swift technology, which makes the paddle faster in hand and your shots stronger than ever.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Swift Pickleball Paddle has a carbon friction surface, which delivers a durable, textured surface that harnesses raw power and provides maximum spin. Additionally, the reactive honeycomb polymer core maximizes each shot’s consistency in bounce and feel. It also reduces vibration for optimal comfort and feel when hitting the pickleball ball.

This paddle is also great for tennis elbow, because it has a hyper-foam edge wall, which adds weight and stability to the perimeter of the paddle and increases the sweet spot for consistent edge-to-edge performance. It also has a carbon-forged handle, which provides maximum flex for additional power and comfort.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Swift Pickleball Paddle comes in two sizes: 14 and 16. The 14 size has a weight range of 7.4 to 7.8 oz and a grip circumference of 4.25 in. The 16 size has a weight range of 7.8 to 8.3 oz and a grip circumference of 4.25 in. Both sizes have an elongated handle with a perforated anti-slip ridge grip.

Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle

Specifications:

• Paddle Face: FiberFlex Fiberglass
• Paddle Core: Polypropylene X5 Honeycomb
• Paddle Shape: Epic (Standard), S2 (Wide Body), Invikta (Elongated), Maxima (Slim)
• Paddle Weight: 7.3 – 8.4 oz
• Grip Size: 4 1/4 inches
• Grip Length: Epic (5 1/4 inches), S2 (4 1/2 inches), Invikta (5 1/4 inches), Maxima (5 1/4 inches)
• Paddle Length: Epic (15 3/4 inches), S2 (15 3/4 inches), Invikta (16 1/2 inches), Maxima (17 inches)
• Paddle Width: Epic (8 inches), S2 (8 inches), Invikta (7 3/8 inches), Maxima (6 7/8 inches)
• Edge Guard: Yes
• USAPA Approved: Yes

Pros:

• FiberFlex fiberglass face for smooth feel and touch
• Polypropylene X5 core for consistent bounce and feel
• Large sweet spot and forgiving edge-to-edge performance
• Balanced weight distribution for speed and maneuverability
• Low impact vibration dampening system for tennis elbow protection

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other paddles
• May not suit players who prefer a heavier or lighter paddle
• May not suit players who prefer a different paddle shape or grip size

If you are looking for a pickleball paddle that can give you power and control in one, you might want to check out Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle.

Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is great for tennis elbow because it has a Polypropylene X5 Core Technology that reduces the shock and vibration that can cause elbow pain. It also has a FiberFlex fiberglass surface that gives you a smooth feel and touch when playing. These features make Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle a comfortable and reliable paddle for players with tennis elbow.

Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle comes in four shapes: Epic, S2, Invikta and Maxima. Each shape has its own features and benefits, but they all share the same core and surface technology.

Epic:

This is the all-around paddle that offers a balance of power and control. It has a standard shape with a large sweet spot and a standard grip size. It weighs between 7.3 and 8.4 oz.

S2:

This is the paddle with the largest sweet spot that offers great maneuverability and speed. It has a wide-body shape with a short handle and a standard grip size. It weighs between 7.4 and 8.4 oz.

Invikta:

This is the paddle with the elongated shape that offers extended reach and power. It has a long handle and a standard grip size. It weighs between 7.5 and 8.4 oz.

Maxima:

This is the paddle with the longest handle that offers great leverage and control. It has a slim shape with a long handle and a thin grip size. It weighs between 7.3 and 8.4 oz.

HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle

Specifications:

• Paddle Face: Fiberglass
• Paddle Core: Polymer Honeycomb
• Paddle Shape: Elongated
• Paddle Weight: 8.0 – 8.3 oz
• Grip Size: 4 1/4 inches
• Grip Length: 5 inches
• Paddle Length: 16 inches
• Paddle Width: 7 7/8 inches
• Edge Guard: Yes
• USAPA Approved: Yes

Pros:

• Dynamic power shape for larger sweet spot and pop
• Textured surface for maximum spin and ball cushioning
• Thick OTC honeycomb core for advanced control and feel
• Ergonomic grip for comfort and security
• Low impact vibration dampening system for tennis elbow protection

Cons:

• May not suit players who prefer a wider or shorter paddle shape
• May not be very durable due to the fiberglass face

Head Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is part of the Radical series, which is designed for versatile players who can play any shot. It features a dynamic power shape, which provides a tapered edge for more maneuverability and pop.

Head Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle has a smooth fiberglass surface and a thick OTC honeycomb core. The surface offers excellent feel and touch, while the core provides consistent bounce and feel for every shot. It also reduces vibration for optimal comfort and feel when hitting the pickleball ball.

Head Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle has an elongated body and an ergonomic grip. The body gives you extended reach and power, while the grip gives you a comfortable and secure hold. The paddle weighs between 8.0 and 8.3 oz and has a medium grip size. The face is 7-7/8 in wide and the length is 16 in.

This paddle is also great for tennis elbow, because it has a low impact vibration dampening system that reduces shock and vibration and protects your arm from injury. It also has a balanced weight distribution that allows you to swing with ease and comfort.

ONIX Graphite Z5 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

Specifications:

• Paddle Face: Graphite
• Paddle Core: Nomex Honeycomb
• Paddle Shape: Wide Body
• Paddle Weight: 7.5 – 8.2 oz
• Grip Size: 4 1/4 inches
• Grip Length: 5 inches
• Paddle Length: 15.5 inches
• Paddle Width: 8.3 inches
• Edge Guard: Yes
• USAPA Approved: Yes

Pros:

• Excellent touch and control
• Rough texture surface for maximum spin and ball cushioning
• Large sweet spot
• Tennis handle shape for comfort and security
• Cushion comfort grip for tennis elbow protection

Cons:

• May be too heavy for some players
• May not suit players who prefer a smaller or longer paddle shape
• May wear out faster than other paddles due to the nomex core

ONIX Graphite Z5 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles are the most popular paddles from ONIX, a leading manufacturer of performance pickleball equipment. They are suitable for players of all levels, from beginner to advanced.

ONIX Graphite Z5 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles have a graphite face with a rough texture surface and a nomex honeycomb core. The lightweight properties of the graphite face increase speed, pop, and maneuverability. The rough texture surface provides maximum spin and ball cushioning. The nomex honeycomb core gives players superior feel of the ball and consistent bounce and feel for every shot.

ONIX Graphite Z5 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddles have a wide body shape with a large sweet spot and a tennis handle shape. The largest sweet spot is created by the wide body form, which increases the width of an enlarged paddle shape. The design of the tennis handle is similar to that of a tennis racket, which makes it easy to hold and offers excellent spin and control while playing. The paddles weigh between 7.5 and 8.2 oz and have a medium grip size of 4 1/4 inches.

These paddles are also great for tennis elbow, because they have a cushion comfort grip that reduces vibration and enhances comfort and feel when hitting the pickleball ball. They also have a balanced weight distribution that allows you to swing with ease and comfort.

Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle

Specifications:

• Paddle Face: Graphite
• Paddle Core: Polymer Honeycomb
• Paddle Shape: Wide Body
• Paddle Weight: 7.5 – 8 oz
• Grip Size: 4 3/8 inches
• Grip Length: 5 1/4 inches
• Paddle Length: 15 7/8 inches
• Paddle Width: 8 inches
• Edge Guard: Yes
• USAPA Approved: Yes

Pros:

• Unmatched accuracy, power and forgiveness
• Smart Response Technology for enhanced feel and sensitivity
• Large and consistent sweet spot
• Textured surface for maximum spin and ball cushioning
• Balanced weight distribution for speed and maneuverability
• Ergonomic grip for comfort and security
• Low impact vibration dampening system for tennis elbow protection

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other paddles
• May not suit players who prefer a smaller or longer paddle shape

If you are looking for a pickleball paddle that can give you unmatched accuracy, power and forgiveness, you might want to check out Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle. This paddle is part of the Tempest series, which is designed for versatile players who can play any shot. It features Smart Response Technology, which enhances the feel and sensitivity of the paddle and provides a consistent bounce and feel for every shot.

Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle has a graphite face with a textured surface and a polymer honeycomb core. The graphite face offers excellent touch and control, while the textured surface delivers maximum spin and ball cushioning. The polymer honeycomb core gives players superior power and forgiveness, while reducing vibration for optimal comfort and feel when hitting the pickleball ball.

Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle has a wide body shape with a large sweet spot and an ergonomic grip. For the biggest sweet area, the wide body shape widens an expansive paddle form. The ergonomic grip gives you a comfortable and secure hold. The paddle weighs between 7.5 and 8 oz and has a medium grip size of 4 3/8 inches.

This paddle is also great for tennis elbow, because it has a balanced weight distribution that allows you to swing with ease and comfort. It also has an edge shock guard that protects the paddle from damage and adds stability to the perimeter of the paddle.

Conclusion:

We have round up some of the best pickleball paddle for tennis elbow. ProKennex Pickleball Paddles is our top choice after reviewing multiple paddles. Their paddles are specially designed for elbow pain. And our top runner up is ONIX Graphite Z5. Onix is one of the best pickleball paddle available in the market.