Pain on the outer side of the elbow is a complaint often heard among padel players, and many wonder whether changing rackets might help. The honest answer is that equipment can reduce the strain but is not a cure on its own: the pain can have different causes and also depends on technique, amount of play and physical condition.
This guide is for information only and does not replace the advice of a doctor or physiotherapist. If you have persistent pain, see a healthcare professional first. Here we deal with one practical question only: which features to consider for a racket that is gentler on the arm.
Why the racket can make a difference
At each impact part of the energy reaches the arm in the form of vibration and strain. The load depends on how often you hit, how stiff the racket is, how the weight is distributed and where you hit the ball: off-centre shots tend to twist the face and transmit more to the wrist and forearm.
There are no guarantees, however: no model can promise to prevent or resolve tennis elbow, and sensations vary from person to person. Treat the points below as general principles, to be tested on your own arm and with whoever is treating you.
The features to look for
In our catalog you can use the dedicated arm and elbow comfort filter, which can be combined with shape, material and weight. In general, the rackets considered most comfortable share these features:
- Softer materials: fiberglass and some hybrid models tend to feel less stiff than a hard carbon face.
- Low or medium balance: weight close to the handle reduces the effort needed to move the racket. The round shape is often the starting point.
- A large sweet spot: it makes off-centre hits, the most uncomfortable ones, less frequent.
- Moderate weight: a racket that is too heavy is tiring, but one that is too light can push you to compensate with your arm. Our guide on how much a racket should weigh will help you find your way.
What to treat with more caution
Some features should not be ruled out altogether, but they deserve attention if your arm is sensitive. Diamond rackets concentrate the weight towards the head and ask more of the arm. Very stiff carbon faces transmit more direct feedback and call for fast, centred shots.
Beware of sudden changes too: switching all at once to a much heavier or more head-heavy racket can increase the load. If you decide to change model, do so gradually and watch how your arm reacts in the following sessions.
It is not only about the racket
Even the most comfortable model cannot make up for everything. Here are some aspects worth discussing with a coach or a professional:
- Technique: gripping too tightly and a swing driven only by the wrist or forearm can increase the load.
- Amount of play: a sudden increase in the number of weekly matches is a frequent cause of overload.
- Grip: a thickness suited to your hand stops you squeezing too hard. A new overgrip costs little and can already change how things feel.
- Recovery: warming up, adequate rest and any exercise programme should be agreed with whoever is treating you.
Questions to ask yourself before buying
Before choosing a new model, try answering these questions. They can help you work out whether the problem really depends on the racket and explain the situation better to whoever is treating you.
- Did the discomfort appear after changing racket, or after increasing your hours of play?
- Do you feel it more on a specific shot, such as the bandeja, the smash or the backhand volley?
- How much does your current racket weigh and where is its weight concentrated?
- How long has it been since you changed your overgrip, and how tightly do you hold the handle during a rally?
- Have you already asked a doctor, physiotherapist or coach for an opinion?
How to choose in practice
If you can, try two or three different models for a few short sessions, noting how your arm feels in the following hours and the next day. Immediate sensations on court do not always tell the whole story. Start from a forgiving racket, often also suited to beginners, and increase stiffness or weight only if your arm responds well.
Do not chase the miracle solution, and be wary of anyone promising to eliminate pain thanks to a single model. For a complete picture of the selection criteria, also read how to choose a padel racket.
Frequently asked questions
Can a racket cure tennis elbow?
No. A more comfortable racket can help reduce strain, but it is not a treatment. If the pain persists, you need an assessment by a doctor or physiotherapist.
Is a light or a heavy racket better if my elbow hurts?
People usually look for a moderate weight with a low or medium balance. A racket that is too heavy is tiring, while one that is too light can transmit more vibration and lead you to force your swing.
Is fiberglass always more comfortable than carbon?
It often feels softer, but that depends on the whole construction, including the core. There are relatively comfortable carbon rackets and unsuitable fiberglass ones, so it is best to try them when possible.
Can I keep playing if my elbow hurts?
That is a question for a healthcare professional, who can assess your case. Playing through pain without advice can make things worse.