Is Pickleball Good for Osteoarthritis?

Pickleball is a paddleball sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It’s a low-impact sport that can be played by people of all ages and fitness levels. With its growing popularity, it’s not surprising that people are asking whether pickleball is good for osteoarthritis. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and risks of playing pickleball for people with osteoarthritis. We’ll also provide tips on how to stay safe while playing and answer some frequently asked questions.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage in the joints. It’s the most common type of arthritis, affecting over 32.5 million adults in the United States [1]. The condition can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, making it difficult to perform daily activities. Osteoarthritis commonly affects the knees, hips, and hands, but it can occur in any joint.

How Can Pickleball Benefit People with Osteoarthritis?

Pickleball has several potential benefits for people with osteoarthritis. Here are some of the ways that pickleball can help:

1. Low-Impact Exercise

Pickleball is a low-impact sport, which means it doesn’t put as much stress on the joints as high-impact sports like running or basketball. This makes it an excellent exercise option for people with osteoarthritis who want to stay active without putting too much strain on their joints. According to Dr. Sarah Leong-Lopes, a physical therapist and pickleball player, “Pickleball is a great option for people with arthritis because it’s a low-impact activity that doesn’t put a lot of stress on the joints” [1].

2. Improves Mobility

Playing pickleball can improve mobility in people with osteoarthritis. According to the USA Pickleball Board, “Knee extensor power has been linked to improved mobility in those with knee osteoarthritis” [2]. Pickleball involves a lot of movement, which can help strengthen the muscles around the joints and improve overall mobility.

3. Boosts Balance

Balance problems are common in people with osteoarthritis, especially in the knees and hips. Playing pickleball can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. According to GoodRx, “Balance problems can be addressed with the quick movements and changes in direction required by pickleball” [2].

4. Social Benefits

Playing pickleball can also provide social benefits for people with osteoarthritis. The sport can be played as singles or pairs, and it’s a great way to meet new people and make friends. According to Pickleball5000, “Since pickleball is a sport that can be played indoors or outdoors, as singles and pairs, and contributes to positive social bonds, I can confidently say that yes, pickleball is good for arthritis” [3].

5. May Improve Independence

Playing pickleball regularly may help older adults improve their reflexes and balance, which can help them live independently for longer. It may also improve range of motion, which can help minimize arthritis symptoms that prevent everyday tasks [4].

What Are the Risks of Playing Pickleball for People with Osteoarthritis?

While pickleball has several potential benefits for people with osteoarthritis, it’s not without risks. Here are some of the risks to consider:

1. Joint Pain

Playing pickleball can cause joint pain, especially if you’re not used to the movements involved. It’s important to start slowly and gradually build up your endurance and strength over time. It’s also important to listen to your body and stop playing if you experience pain.

2. Joint Damage

Pushing your limits during pickleball can increase pain and put you at a higher risk of joint damage. It’s important to respect pain and choose activities with your physical limitations in mind. According to Verywell Health, “Common triggers include overdoing an activity, such as exercise or housework, or an injury to the area” [5].

3. Risk of Falls

While pickleball can help improve balance, there’s still a risk of falls, especially for older adults or those with balance problems. It’s important to take precautions and wear appropriate footwear to minimize the risk of falls.

4. Overuse Injuries

Playing pickleball regularly can put stress on the joints, which can lead to overuse injuries. It’s important to take breaks and rest between games to give your joints time to recover.

Tips for Playing Pickleball with Osteoarthritis

If you’re considering playing pickleball with osteoarthritis, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Talk to Your Doctor

Before starting any new exercise program, it’s important to talk to your doctor, especially if you have a medical condition like osteoarthritis. Your doctor can help you determine if pickleball is safe for you and provide guidance on how to get started.

2. Start Slowly

If you’re new to pickleball, it’s important to start slowly and gradually build up your endurance and strength. This can help reduce the risk of joint pain or injury.

3. Warm Up Before Playing

Before playing pickleball, it’s important to warm up your muscles and joints to reduce the risk of injury. This can include stretching, light cardio, or other warm-up exercises.

4. Wear the Right Shoes

Wearing the right shoes can help minimize the risk of falls and overuse injuries. Look for shoes that provide good support and traction and are designed for court sports.

5. Take Breaks and Rest

Taking breaks and resting between games can help prevent overuse injuries and give your joints time to recover. Don’t be afraid to take a break if you experience pain or fatigue.

FAQs

Is pickleball good for people with osteoarthritis?

Yes, pickleball can have several potential benefits for people with osteoarthritis, including low-impact exercise, improved mobility, boosted balance, social benefits, and improved independence.

What are the risks of playing pickleball with osteoarthritis?

The risks of playing pickleball with osteoarthritis include joint pain, joint damage, risk of falls, and overuse injuries.

How can I reduce the risk of injury while playing pickleball with osteoarthritis?

You can reduce the risk of injury by talking to your doctor before starting, starting slowly, warming up before playing, wearing the right shoes, and taking breaks and resting between games.

Can pickleball help improve balance in people with osteoarthritis?

Yes, pickleball can help improve balance in people with osteoarthritis by requiring quick movements and changes in direction.

Can playing pickleball with osteoarthritis improve my range of motion?

Yes, playing pickleball regularly may help improve range of motion, which can help minimize arthritis symptoms that prevent everyday tasks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pickleball can be a good option for people with osteoarthritis who want to stay active and enjoy the social benefits of playing a sport. The low-impact nature of the sport can help minimize stress on the joints, and playing pickleball regularly may help improve mobility, balance, and range of motion. 

However, it’s important to start slowly, warm up before playing, wear the right shoes, and take breaks and rest between games to minimize the risk of injury. It’s also important to listen to your body and stop playing if you experience pain. Before starting any new exercise program, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor, especially if you have a medical condition like osteoarthritis.

Remember, pickleball is just one of many activities that can be beneficial for people with osteoarthritis. Staying active, eating a balanced diet, and finding activities that you enjoy are all important for managing arthritis symptoms and maintaining overall health. With the right precautions and guidance, you can safely enjoy the benefits of pickleball while living with osteoarthritis.