8 Best Pickleball Paddles For Tennis Elbow 2023

If you suffer from tennis elbow, you know how annoying and painful it can be. The good news is that there are pickleball paddles designed specifically for people with this condition.

The best pickleball paddles for tennis elbow have a number of features that make them ideal for people who are struggling with pain.

For example, they are often lighter weight than traditional paddles, which makes them easier to swing without putting too much strain on the arm.

In addition, many of these paddles have a larger sweet spot, which helps to reduce the risk of hitting the ball too hard and aggravating the pain.

Finally, many of these paddles have a ergonomic design that helps to reduce wrist motion and overuse of the wrist.

My Recommendation:

Franklin Aspen Kern is one of the best pickleball paddles for people with tennis elbow. The paddle is lightweight and durable, and the grip is easy to hold. As a result, your wrist won’t tire even if you play for an extended period of time.

In addition, the paddle is also very reasonably priced, making it a great value for the money. Overall, the Franklin Aspen Kern is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quality paddle that won’t break the bank.

List Of Best Pickleball Paddles For Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a common affliction among pickleball players, especially those who play with an improper paddle. In order to avoid this condition, it is important to choose a paddle that is comfortable and offers good support.

Here are some of the best paddles for preventing tennis elbow:

Franklin Aspen Kern – Best Pickleball Paddle for Tennis Elbow

The Franklin Aspen Kern is my best pickleball paddle for tennis elbow, and I wanted to share my experience with it. This paddle has a 13 millimeter polypropylene core and a carbon fiber textured surface. 

The size of this paddle is 15.7 inches long and 7.8 inches wide, with a weight range between 7.5 and 7.8 ounces.

The design of this paddle is eye-catching and unique; it reminds me of old school Hollywood style with its classy look. 

Plus, the surface technology, which they call Max Grit, gives players extra control when hitting backhands or forehands near the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ).

The handle length on this paddle is 4.9 inches, slightly shorter than an average length handle, yet it still works great for two-handed backhands if you’re into that style. It also helps with maneuverability and fast exchanges at the net.

When I demoed this paddle, I was really impressed by how easy it was to switch from forehand to backhand shots. The ball felt smooth and powerful off the paddle surface, giving me full control of my shots. 

My only adjustment was getting used to the squared-off handle, which is the signature of Franklin paddles.

Overall, this paddle can help players who suffer from pickleball elbow due to its mid-weight range, which allows for a light yet powerful stroke without too much strain on the elbow. 

I recommend this best pickleball rackets to prevent tennis elbow to any pickleball player looking for a great combination of power and control. It’s definitely a winner in my book!

Feature	Description
Core Material	13 millimeter polypropylene
Surface Material	Carbon fiber textured
Surface Technology	Max Grit
Size	15.7 inches long, 7.8 inches wide
Weight	7.5-7.8 ounces
Handle Length	4.9 inches
Design	Eye-catching and unique, reminiscent of old school Hollywood style

PROKENNEX Ovation Flight – Lightweight Design Best for Arm Muscle & Tendons

The PROKENNEX Ovation Flight Pickleball Paddle is an incredible choice for players that suffer from tennis elbow. This paddle is lightweight and has a great balance with the right weight distribution to make it easy on your arm muscles and tendons. 

The core of this paddle is made with Super Soft Foam, which provides a firm yet soft feel to reduce the impact on your arm when you hit. 

Additionally, an Aero Guard System bumper guard adds protection if you accidentally dig the paddle into the ground or toss it after a missed shot.

I tried out this paddle recently and was surprised by how fast it was and how much power I could generate with each shot. It felt so light in my hand, but I still had enough mass to create some serious shots. 

The paddle had a nice pop off of it, and I could tap into great power while playing.

I liked that this paddle was so speedy and allowed me to access spin easily, but I lost some control over my shots due to the lacking feel for the paddle in the air. Additionally, because this is such a powerful paddle, I often found myself conscious of not sending balls too deep on the court since they could sail away when hit hard.

Overall, the PROKENNEX Ovation Flight Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for players who suffer from tennis elbow or anyone looking for a fast and powerful paddle. 

It’s lightweight, balanced, and offers plenty of pop for powerful shots. The only downside was a lack of feel, which could be an issue for players looking for more control.

If you suffer from tennis elbow and want to get back into the game, this paddle is definitely worth checking out!

Feature	Description
Weight	7.3 – 7.6 OZ
Grip Circumference	4″
Handle Length	4 7/8″
Paddle Face	Carbon with diamond frost face
Bumper Guard	Aero Guard System
Speed	Fast
Power	High

HEAD Radical Tour – Best Shock Absorbing Technology for Shoulder Strain

I have had the pleasure of trying out the HEAD Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle, and I can honestly say that it is a great all-round paddle. 

The HEAD Radical Tour features a polymer core, semi-rough graphite hitting surface and Head’s proprietary Control Stabilizer Technology, which helps to balance out your shots, especially those powerful shots at the net.

The paddle’s weight is 7.9 ounces with a 13mm thick core, and it comes in two colors – blue/black or red/black. With its modern block design, this paddle answers back to quick fire exchanges with strength and power. 

My shots feel crisp and clean no matter where I am on the court – at the baseline serving or returning or at the net volleying.

What I appreciate most about this paddle is that it sits in an ideal weight category – not too heavy or too light, but just right for my game. 

It’s very maneuverable, so I can play with it in doubles or singles, producing those powerful groundstrokes. The sweet spot sits higher, which means you get more power out of your shots.

But here is where this paddle excels – vibration damping for tennis elbow or shoulder strain. 

With its proprietary Control Stabilizer Technology, this paddle absorbs a lot of shock from shots giving you less vibration on your body and more control over your shots. This is especially useful during quick exchanges when every shot counts!

The only thing I didn’t like is that the sweet spot sits quite high up towards the top of the paddle, so if you’re looking for consistent power in your shots, this might be something to consider.

Overall, the HEAD Radical Tour is the best pickleball paddle for shoulder pain. It has enough power and control to perform at any level, and its vibration damping makes it ideal for players that are prone to elbow or shoulder strain. 

Definitely check this paddle out if you’re looking for a lightweight all-rounder with outstanding shock absorption.

Feature	Description
Core Material	Polymer
Hitting Surface	Semi-rough graphite
Weight	7.9 ounces
Core Thickness	13mm
Color Options	Blue/black or red/black
Maneuverability	Suitable for doubles or singles
Sweet Spot	High, for more power on shots

Engage Poach Infinity EX – Best for Tennis Elbow Medical Problems

As a pickleball player, I always look for paddles that reduce stress on the elbow. After playing with the Engage Pickleball Poach Infinity EX Pickleball Paddle, I can say that this paddle is definitely worth considering if you’re looking to cut down on elbow pain. 

Its thin core and special handle design gives it enough power and control to help make those long rallies more enjoyable without stressing your arm. 

The counterweight feature also helps reduce tension in the arm by shifting the weight closer to your hand instead of up top. Additionally, the variable flex technology makes shots easier by allowing for a larger sweet spot than usual.

Furthermore, this paddle has vibration dampening technology that helps reduce the shock of hard hits. This is great for those who are prone to suffering from tennis elbow, as it allows you to keep playing with minimal pain and discomfort. 

Another feature I like about this paddle is its weight. It’s lightweight enough to make fast swings yet heavy enough to provide the power behind hard shots.

The one downside of this paddle is that it has a high price tag, so if you’re on a budget, you may have better options. However, given all its features and performance capabilities, it’s worth considering.

In conclusion, the Engage Pickleball Poach Infinity EX Pickleball Paddle is an excellent option for players looking to reduce stress on their elbows. 

Its vibration dampening technology, counterweight feature, and variable flex technology help make it a great choice for those seeking to improve their game without straining the arm. 

It’s certainly worth checking out if you’re in the market for an advanced paddle that can help relieve elbow pain and maximize your performance.

Feature	Description
Weight	7.9 oz
Length	16 in
Width	8 in
Variable Flex Technology	Yes
Vibration Dampening Technology	Yes

Gearbox Gx5 – Best for Pickleball Elbow Under 200 Dollars

I recently got the opportunity to play with the Gearbox GX5 Pickleball Paddle. I was immediately impressed by its edgeless design, which allowed for a smooth and accurate stroke.

The paddle is also incredibly durable, as I can attest to – it’s been in my bag for months now and hasn’t shown any signs of wear or tear.

The biggest factor in reducing the arm strain associated with pickleball is vibration dampening, something that this paddle excels at.

During rallies, there was virtually no harsh feedback coming through the handle as some other paddles have exhibited; even after long rallies, my arms felt fresh and ready to go again.

The grip is also incredibly thin, making it comfortable to hold and easy on the arm muscles. This is especially helpful if you’re playing with an injury or overuse of the muscles in your forearm.

It also has a great weight-to-balance ratio, making it suitable for both singles and doubles play.

Ultimately, the Gearbox GX5 Pickleball Paddle is a fantastic paddle with enough vibration dampening to help reduce tennis elbow in players who are prone to it.

The only thing I don’t like about it is the price – it’s a bit on the high side compared to other paddles, but if you’re looking for quality and durability, then spending the extra money is worth it.

All in all, this best paddles for pickleball elbow gets two thumbs up from me! I highly recommend it for players who want to reduce arm strain from pickleball. It’s a great paddle and well worth the money.

Feature	Description
Handle Circumference	3 5/8 or 3 15/16 grip
Handle Length	4-3/4″
Paddle Length	15-7/8″
Paddle Width	8″
Paddle Thickness	7/16″
Weight	7.8 oz
Dampener System	Included
Spin Technology	Hyper Bite Spin Technology
Color	Red/Orange/Green/Blue
Core Technology	Solid Span Technology

Prokennex Pro Speed II – Best for Advanced Players with Arm Related Issues

My experience with the Prokennex Pro Speed II Pickleball Paddle was nothing short of amazing. It has a lot of features that make this paddle suitable for tennis elbow and other arm related issues.

The first thing I noticed about this paddle is its 13mm core, which helps reduce vibration when you strike the ball. This is particularly important if you’re playing frequently and find yourself suffering from pickleball elbow or even tennis elbow.

The second feature I liked about this paddle is its edge to edge design, which gives it a larger sweet spot than most paddles in the same category. This allows me to hit more powerful shots without putting too much strain on my elbow or shoulder.

Additionally, I found that the surface texture of the paddle is really good. It’s not overly gritty, so I don’t feel like I have to put in a lot of effort to get the kind of speed and power that I need.

My only complaint about this paddle is that it’s probably better suited for high intermediate or advanced players as opposed to lower level players who are still mastering their fundamentals.

While this paddle could certainly help reduce elbow pain if you suffer from tennis elbow, it won’t do much good unless your fundamentals are solid. Of course, if someone were to gift this to me then I would definitely use it!

Overall, I think the Prokennex Pro Speed II Pickleball Paddle is a great option for players who are looking to reduce arm pain due to pickleball and tennis elbow.

With its 13mm core and edge-to-edge design, it provides a larger sweet spot with less vibration than other paddles on the market. It’s certainly not a bad paddle, but I think it’s better suited for advanced players as opposed to beginners.

Feature	Description
Weight	7.7 – 8 OZ
Grip Style	Comfort Cushion
Grip Circumference	4″
Handle Length	4 7/8″
Paddle Length	15.43″
Paddle Width	7.6″
Paddle Face	Proprietary 7-layer coating
Paddle Frame	Kinetic System Technology with Carbon Casing
Core Material	Polypropylene honeycomb
USAPA Sanctioned	Approved for use in USAPA Sanctioned Tournament

Gamma Jester NeuCore – Suitable for Small Hands

I’ve taken it out for a few rounds of practice and can confidently say that this Gamma Jester NeuCore Pickleball Paddle is an ideal choice for those seeking minimal strain on their wrists & elbows.

The handle size is perfect for those with smaller hands, so you won’t have to worry about it slipping around in your palm during extended play sessions. Plus, the weight distribution makes it easier to maneuver the paddle, helping you avoid any fatigue or strain while playing.

In terms of performance, the Gamma Neocore Jester Pickleball Paddle can hold its own. It has a good balance between power and accuracy, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.

The surface is also slightly textured so that you can get some spin on your shots without having to put in too much effort. Plus, the core itself is designed to absorb shock and minimize vibrations when hitting the ball, helping reduce any shoulder/elbow strain associated with harder strikes.

All in all, I’d say this best pickleball paddle for tendonitis is great for players who want a well-balanced racket with minimal stress on their wrists & elbows.

Highly recommended! Now if only we could find a way to make playing pickleball even easier. That would be something! Until then, the Gamma Neocore Jester Pickleball Paddle is definitely worth a shot.

JOOLA Vision – Affordable Paddle for Tennis Elbow

In my personal experience, I really enjoyed using the JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something lightweight and gives you more control and power over your shots.

The 14mm carbon grip surface is grippy enough to ensure that your shots have spin but not so much that it limits the speed of your shots. I found this paddle to be particularly good for repetitive motions without stressing out the elbow or shoulder area.

The handle of the paddle has a stock bump-ridged grip, which is comfortable to hold and helps maintain strong control over shots.

Additionally, I like how easy it was to customize this paddle – I added some yellow tape on the handle to further improve the grip. The paddle also features an ultra-lightweight construction which helps when doing faster swings without putting too much strain on the arms.

I think one of my favorite features is the fact that it’s very well balanced. This allows me to hit powerful shots with ease, as well as stay consistent throughout my game. I also enjoyed using this paddle for drop shots and dinks – both of which require a lot of control and finesse.

However, I do have some minor dislikes about this paddle. For example, it could be more durable, so you may need to replace it sooner than other paddles. Additionally, sometimes I found myself needing more power in my shots, so I had to adjust my swing to make up for it.

Overall, the JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle is a great choice if you’re looking for something lightweight and well-balanced. It offers excellent control and spin while providing enough power when needed.

This paddle is perfect for repetitive motions without stressing your elbow or shoulder area. If you’re looking for a quality option that won’t break the bank, this paddle may be what you need!

What Is a Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons where they attach to the elbow. It is caused by repetitive movements and strain on the tendons. 

Examples of such activities include mouse work or lifting weights at the gym. Symptoms include increasing pain when performing common activities, such as pouring water from a kettle or picking up small objects like coffee mugs. 

Tennis elbow may affect both elbows simultaneously and can also result from massage due to cross-directional work.

The condition occurs when there is inflammation in these tendon attachment points along the outside of the elbow (visible in models of arms). 

This inflammation results from intense overuse or strain on these muscles, which causes them to become tight and weak, leading to pain. 

The muscles involved in tennis elbow are responsible for wrist extension and may be located near the forearm bones and upper arm bone.

Tennis elbow follows three stages: an acute stage (with increasing pain and tenderness), a subacute stage (where pain persists but slowly subsides), and a chronic stage (where there is persistent pain). 

Treatment can include rest, ice, compression, physical therapy (stretching exercises), medications or injections. Surgery is typically only needed if other treatments are not effective in managing the condition.

By understanding what tennis elbow is, individuals can better deal with it themselves. With proper diagnosis and care from medical professionals, individuals can manage their symptoms effectively and get relief from the pain and discomfort associated with tennis elbow.

How Can I Fix My Tennis Elbow Pain?

Tennis elbow is a common type of tendonitis that causes pain around the outside of your elbow. It usually affects people who play racquet sports but can also affect those who regularly use their arms for activities such as typing or painting. 

To get relief from tennis elbow pain, there are several things you can do.

First and foremost, rest is key! Take some time away from activities involving repetitive motion with your arm and take frequent breaks while doing strenuous tasks. 

A cold compress applied to the area can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. You should also stretch and massage the affected muscles before and after activity these activities improve circulation, which may help reduce inflammation and speed up healing.

Another way to help with tennis elbow pain is to perform strengthening exercises. This can help build up the muscles in your arm and forearm, which can provide better support while doing activities that can cause tennis elbow. 

One exercise you can do is called “thumbs up.” Start by holding a weight or resistance band in both hands. Then, extend your arms out in front of you and bring your thumbs towards each other as if giving a thumbs up sign. 

Keep your wrists straight, pause for a few seconds at the top and then slowly lower the weight back down. Repeat this 10 times and keep it slow and steady fast movements irritate the tendons further.

You could also use a household object, such as a kettle filled with water, to help strengthen the muscles in your arm. Start with minimal amounts of weight and perform slow, controlled movements. 

When lowering the kettle down, pause for a few seconds at the top and then slowly lower it back down again. Do this 10 times and only do it once daily any more could delay healing time.

Finally, ensure you’re wearing the correct equipment when playing racquet sports or performing activities that involve repetitive motions of your arms, such as typing or painting. This can help reduce strain on your tendons and provide extra support while doing these activities.

By following these tips, you should notice a reduction in tennis elbow pain over time and improved strength.

How To Select Arm Friendly Pickleball Paddles

If you have tennis elbow pain, the last thing you want is to buy a pickleball paddle that will worsen your condition. Thankfully, there are certain factors to consider when choosing an arm-friendly pickleball paddle, so you can minimize the vibration and reduce any discomfort.

Wight of The Paddle

Start by checking the weight of your desired paddle it should be lightweight enough so that it won’t put too much strain on your arms while still providing enough power for those long shots. 

You may also want to look into a handle with an extra-long grip, which can make all the difference between a comfortable experience and one filled with soreness and fatigue.

Material of The Paddle

The type of material used in constructing the paddle is also important. Typically, you’ll want to avoid paddles made of plastic or aluminum as these materials tend to increase vibration and can add stress to your arm. 

Instead, opt for a paddle with a graphite face or composite core which is designed to absorb vibrations and reduce the impact on your arm.

Shape of The Paddle

The shape of the paddle is another factor when it comes to comfort. A larger head size will provide more power but may also increase the risk of tennis elbow pain, so consider going for something with a smaller head size if you’re prone to that type of discomfort. 

The thickness of the handle should also be considered too thick and it could cause fatigue quickly, while too thin could lead to poor control over shots.

Consult Your Doctor

Finally, don’t forget to consult with a professional before purchasing your new pickleball paddle. They can help you decide which type of paddle and materials will offer the best balance between comfort and performance. 

With their expertise, you can be sure that your new pickleball paddle won’t cause any further irritation or strain on your arm.

By taking all these factors into account when choosing an arm-friendly pickleball paddle, you can keep playing without having to worry about the discomfort associated with tennis elbow pain. 

With the right knowledge and selection process, you’ll be able to find a perfect paddle for your game one that strikes just the right balance between power and comfort!

Upper Arm Pain from Pickleball

Upper arm pain is a common injury among pickleball players, and it can be caused by a variety of factors.

Causes of Upper Arm Pain in Pickleball:

Repetitive Strain Injury: Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a common injury among pickleball players. It is caused by the repetitive motion of hitting the ball, which can lead to inflammation and pain in the upper arm. Overuse of the muscles in the upper arm can also lead to RSI.

Rotator Cuff Injury: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. It is responsible for stabilizing the shoulder and allowing the arm to move. Rotator cuff injuries are common among pickleball players and can cause pain in the upper arm.

Tennis Elbow: Tennis elbow is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the elbow joint. It is caused by the repetitive motion of hitting the ball and can also lead to pain in the upper arm.

Shoulder Impingement: Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons and bones in the shoulder rub against each other, causing pain and inflammation. It is a common injury among pickleball players and can cause pain in the upper arm.

Prevention and Treatment:

Warm-Up and Stretching: Warming up before playing pickleball and stretching the muscles in the upper arm can help prevent injury. It is important to stretch the rotator cuff muscles, as well as the biceps and triceps.

Use Proper Technique: Using proper technique when hitting the ball can help prevent injury. It is important to use a fluid motion and not overextend the arm when hitting the ball.

Take Breaks: Taking breaks between games or during extended playing sessions can help prevent injury. It is also important to listen to your body and stop playing if you experience pain or discomfort.

Ice and Rest: If you do experience upper arm pain, it is important to rest the affected area and ice it to reduce inflammation. Taking a break from playing and allowing the muscles to heal can also help prevent further injury.

Seek Medical Attention: If the pain persists or becomes severe, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor or physical therapist can help diagnose the cause of the pain and develop a treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions