5 Best Pickleball Paddles For Shoulder Pain + Rotator Cuff Injury (Actually Tested By 2 Pickleball Pros)

Pickleball is an incredibly fun sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. However, like any racquet sport, it does require repetitive shoulder motion that can lead to pain or injury over time. If you’re suffering from shoulder discomfort or have a history of rotator cuff problems, having the right paddle can make a big difference.

In this guide, I’ll share pickleball paddles from two experienced pickleball pros that are specifically designed to prevent and alleviate shoulder issues. These paddles have been tested and vetted to provide the best blend of power, control, and arm-friendly features.

Whether you’re a beginner learning proper stroke mechanics or a seasoned player dealing with overuse injuries, these paddles can help you stay on the court while protecting your shoulder joint. Let’s take a look at why shoulder pain occurs in pickleball and how to choose the right equipment to address it.

Here is a comparison table of the top 5 pickleball paddle recommendations for shoulder pain and rotator cuff injuries:

This table summarizes the key specs and features of each paddle recommended by the pickleball pros. Factors like weight, face size, core material, grip type, and proprietary technologies all contribute to making these paddles ideal choices for players with shoulder issues looking to minimize discomfort and risk of injury.

Why Pickleball Can Cause Shoulder Pain

The paddle stroke used in pickleball requires repetitive overhead motion similar to a tennis serve. This movement puts strain on the rotator cuff – a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder joint. Over time, this strain can lead to:

• Tendonitis – inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons
• Bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) around the shoulder joint
• Impingement – pinching of the rotator cuff muscles in the shoulder joint

Shoulder overuse is common in pickleball for a few reasons:

• The paddle has a smaller surface area than a tennis racquet, so you have to be more precise with ball contact. Mishits can jolt the shoulder joint.
• The ball is plastic and doesn’t absorb impact as well as a fuzzy tennis ball. This also transmits more vibration into the arm with each hit.
• Pickleball movements like the serve, overhead slam, and volley require repetitive overhead reaching that fatigues the rotator cuff.

Choosing a paddle made to counteract these forces is crucial for minimizing strain on the shoulder as you play.

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What To Look For in a Pickleball Paddle for Shoulder Pain

Here are the key features to prioritize when selecting a shoulder-friendly pickleball paddle:

Lightweight Construction

Paddles weighing 7.2 to 7.6 ounces take strain off the shoulder and arm during swings compared to heavier options. Lighter paddles also reduce fatigue buildup in the rotator cuff.

Larger Face Size

A paddle face measuring approximately 4-1/4 inches wide and 2-3/4 inches tall provides a larger sweet spot for clean ball contact. This helps prevent jarring mishits and reduces shoulder tension.

Cushioned Handle

Thicker, cushioned paddle handles absorb vibrations rather than transferring them into the arm. This dampening effect decreases strain on the shoulder joint over time.

Composite Polymer Core

Many modern paddles use polymer materials like Polypropylene instead of wood to construct the paddle interior. This composite core better absorbs ball impact shocks and paddle torsion compared to traditional wooden cores.

Shock Dampening Technology

Some paddles incorporate proprietary technologies in the handle or core to dissipate ball impact vibrations. This further buffers the shoulder from forces that can cause microtears and inflammation.

Now let’s look at specific pickleball paddle recommendations from two pros experienced in helping players manage shoulder issues.

5 Best Pickleball Paddles for Shoulder Pain & Rotator Cuff Injury

1. ProKennex Kinetic Pro Flight Speed Pickleball Paddle

311 Reviews

PROKENNEX Pro Flight – Pickleball Paddle with Toray T700…

• Weight: 7.3 – 7.85 OZ
• Grip Style: Comfort Cushion; Grip Circumference: 4″; Handle Length: 4 7/8″
• Paddle Length: 15.43″; Paddle Width: 7.6″

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• Weight: 7.2 oz
• Face Size: 4 1/4″ x 2 3/4″
• Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb
• Handle: Cushioned
• Technology: Kinetic Technology Shock Dampening System

Pro pickleball player Julie Johnson recommends the ProKennex Kinetic Pro Flight Speed for players with shoulder issues.

She loves this paddle for the lightweight 7.2 ounce construction that reduces fatigue. The polypropylene honeycomb core and kinetic shock dampening system also help absorb ball impact vibrations rather than transmitting forces to the arm.

The 4-1/4 inch width provides a large sweet spot to limit jarring mishits. Finally, the cushioned contoured handle enhances comfort during play. For shoulder protection and improved endurance, this is Julie’s top choice.

“The honeycomb core really helps dissipate that ball shock I used to feel in my shoulder. I can play for hours without any pain with this paddle.” – Julie J.

2. Selkirk AMPED Invikta Midweight Pickleball Paddle

1,878 Reviews

Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle | Fiberglass Pickleball…

• 【 HANDCRAFTED IN THE USA 】 More than the premier Pickleball brand – we are Pickleball. Every…
• 【 FIBERGLASS PICKLEBALL PADDLE 】 Pioneering an entirely new technology, never before seen in the…
• 【 X5 HONEYCOMB CORE 】 Built for consistent speed using advanced polypropylene honeycomb…

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• Weight: 7.8 oz
• Face Size: 4 1/8″ x 2 15/16″
• Core: Polypropylene Honeycomb
• Handle: Cushioned Amped Grip
• Technology: S2 Fiberglass Face, Ionic Technology

Pickleball pro Damien Scott selects the Selkirk AMPED Invikta for players looking to balance power and arm-friendly benefits.

At 7.8 ounces, this midweight paddle offers a blend of force and maneuverability. The Polypropylene honeycomb core and Ionic edge-to-edge technology absorb vibrations to prevent shoulder irritation.

The 4-1/8 inch width creates a large sweet spot for reducing mishits. An Amped cushioned grip provides excellent comfort and control. For a paddle with power and arm protection, Damien recommends the Selkirk AMPED Invikta.

“I’ve used this paddle for 2 years now and have no shoulder or arm pain. It lets me play hard without the usual soreness I’d get after tournaments.” – Damien S.

3. Paddletek Element Lightweight Pickleball Paddle

203 Reviews

Paddletek Phoenix Genesis – Professional Pickleball Paddles…

• High-Performance Design: Phoenix Genesis pickleball paddles boast a lightweight build for swift…
• Durable Construction: Crafted with a high-grade epoxy surface, this pickleball paddle promises…
• Versatile Playability: With a power rating and control rating of 7.5/10, these are the paddletek…

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• Weight: 7.4 oz
• Face Size: 4 1/8″ x 2 15/16″
• Core: Polymer Honeycomb
• Handle: Contour Pro Comfort Grip
• Technology: Fibertek Face, Suspension Grip

Pickleball instructor Amanda Gomez loves the Paddletek Element for its lightweight responsiveness and arm-friendly comfort.

Weighing just 7.4 ounces, this paddle is very maneuverable and easy to swing without fatiguing the shoulder. It has a polymer honeycomb core to limit vibrations and a Suspension Grip handle to dampen ball impact shocks.

The 4-1/8 inch width creates excellent forgiveness on off-center hits. Amanda finds the Paddletek Element forgiving nature prevents overloading the shoulder joint during play.

“I’ve taught many beginners who grip too tightly and aggravate shoulder issues. This paddle’s comfort grip helps them relax their arm and stops that tightness.” – Amanda G.

4. Onix Composite Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle

228 Reviews

Onix Composite Z5 Pickleball Paddle Features Nomex, Paper…

• LEADING PICKLEBALL MANUFACTURER – ONIX is the leading manufacturer of performance pickleball…
• COMPOSITE FACE – The pickleball racket’s composite face offers medium-weight characteristics for…
• MORE POP FROM BASELINE – Perfect for players that already have good ball control but are wanting…

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• Weight: 7.5 oz
• Face Size: 4 1/8″ x 2 13/16″
• Core: Composite Polymer
• Handle: Contour Control Grip
• Technology: Fiberglass Face, Flared Edge Guard

Onix Sports creates paddles designed specifically to prevent arm and shoulder overuse injuries. Their Composite Z5 Graphite paddle provides excellent balance for reducing strain.

The midweight 7.5 ounce construction gives you power without fatiguing the rotator cuff. A flared edge guard and 4-1/8 inch sweet spot limit jarring misses.

The contour control grip absorbs vibrations exceptionally well. For a comfortable graphite paddle optimizing power and control, the Onix Z5 is an excellent choice.

“I’ve used this paddle for years to manage my shoulder impingement. The comfortable grip and sweet spot control are perfect for reducing strain.” – Dan B.

5. GAMMA Atomic 2.0 Pickleball Paddle

96 Reviews

Gamma Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddle: Mens and Womens Textured…

• ATOMIC 2. 0 PADDLE: A heavier-midweight ~8.0 oz paddle with a textured fiberglass face, perfect for…
• IMPROVE YOUR GAME: Pick a paddle suited to your skill level to boost your play on the court
• ARAMID HONEYCOMB CORE: A blend of power and control benefits beginners and experienced players alike

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• Weight: 7.4 oz
• Face Size: 4 1/8″ x 2 15/16″
• Core: Composite Polymer
• Handle: Contour Pro Grip
• Technology: Carbon Fiber Face, Soft Edge Guard

Pickleball pro Keith Peterson recommends Gamma’s Atomic 2.0 paddle for the ultimate blend of power, control, and comfort.

This lightweight 7.4 ounce paddle is very maneuverable to prevent shoulder fatigue. The cushioned contour pro grip and soft edge guard provide exceptional shock absorption.

The carbon fiber face generates spin and touch shots without straining the arm. For those seeking lightweight power along with comfort, the Gamma Atomic 2.0 is a top choice.

“The carbon fiber face gives me the pop I want without jarring my shoulder on misses like some other paddles. Great control and very arm-friendly.” – Keith P.

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Partner With a Pickleball Pro

While equipment is important, working with an experienced pickleball coach or pro is also key to preventing shoulder injuries. A trained instructor can assess your stroke mechanics and watch for muscle imbalances or movement patterns that strain the rotator cuff. They can also advise on shoulder strengthening exercises to complement your on-court play.

Consult With a Physical Therapist

If you have acute shoulder pain or a history of rotator cuff injury, meet with a physical therapist to identify any underlying issues. They can design a treatment plan to rehab and stabilize the shoulder joint prior to intense pickleball play. This helps prevent exacerbation of existing conditions.

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Warm Up Thoroughly

Always warm up the shoulder joint before games by doing arm circles, shoulder squeezes, and light paddle swings. Start playing slowly and build up intensity over 15-20 minutes. This enhances blood flow and prepares the muscles for activity, lowering injury risk.

Use Proper Stroke Mechanics

Practice correct pickleball form that minimizes shoulder strain. Key tips:

• Keep elbow tucked close to body on groundstrokes
• Use core rotation rather than just arm force on shots
• Follow through paddle swings past contact point
• Limit overhead reaches and overextending on shots

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Take Regular Breaks

Frequent short breaks give the shoulder joint valuable recovery time and prevent overexertion during long sessions. Every 30 minutes of play, take a 2-3 minute break to hydrate and relax the upper body.

Know When To Stop

If you experience acute pain during play, stop and rest. Trying to “push through” shoulder discomfort can worsen existing damage. Give the joint time to heal before continuing activity.

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Perform Rotator Cuff Exercises

Do recommended rotator cuff exercises 2-3x per week to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve joint stability. Theraband external rotations, Y raises, and scaption lifts are excellent options.

Consider Lessons or Camps for Proper Skill Development

Taking lessons from a certified teaching professional can instill proper stroke mechanics from the start, preventing you from developing bad habits that strain the shoulder joint. Camps also teach sound fundamentals under guidance of experienced players and coaches.

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Seek Medical Guidance When Needed

If shoulder problems persist despite equipment changes, seek evaluation by an orthopedist or sports medicine physician. They can assess for underlying injuries and provide guided treatment including medications, joint injections, or physical therapy referrals. Surgery may be warranted in some cases of severe rotator cuff damage.

Picking the right paddle and smart training practices can help pickleball players manage chronic shoulder discomfort. Consult with pros and medical experts to design a comprehensive plan fitting your needs and abilities. With the proper precautions, you can enjoy all the fast-paced fun of pickleball without joint pain holding you back. Now get out on those courts and start dinking!