Returning to Pickleball After Joint Replacement Surgery

For many, pickleball is more than a sport; it’s a way of life. Being away from your pickleball community following joint replacement surgery can be difficult. However, it’s crucial that you return to the game safely and without jeopardizing the results of your surgery.

This article explains how to get back to playing pickleball after a knee, hip or other joint replacement procedure.

Yes, Pickleball Is Possible Following a Joint Replacement Procedure

Each person’s joint replacement surgery results are unique. However, the goal and expectation with most joint replacement procedures is that the patient will be able to return to the activities they enjoyed before the surgery.

But unsurprisingly, patience is essential. Following this type of major surgery, it takes time for the body to heal and recover. While your mind is eager to “get back out there,” the tissues affected by the procedure benefit from recovery time and a gradual return to action.

Process and Timeline for Getting Back to Pickleball

Many factors will affect your recovery from joint replacement surgery, including your general health, such as which joint is replaced (knees and hips are most common), the surgical approach or technique used, the procedure outcome, etc. However, using knee replacement as an example, a common timeline is as follows:

• Weeks 1–2: The initial focus is on wound care, pain management and basic mobility. Physical therapy starts soon after surgery, with gentle exercises to improve your range of motion. You’ll also gradually increase your mobility using assistive devices like crutches or a walker.
• Weeks 3–6: Your physical therapist helps you increase your strength and range of motion, and you wean yourself off assistive devices.
• Weeks 7–12: Recovery continues, with a focus on strength and stability. You progress to more challenging exercises and longer walks.
• Months 3–6: You gradually return to your normal activities and daily routines. Many patients are able to return to pickleball in this period, although it takes some people up to a year to get back on the court.

Tips for Returning Safely to Pickleball After Joint Replacement Surgery

When your surgeon and physical therapist have cleared you to start playing pickleball, follow these tips to return safely to the game:

• Start slowly with light drills and activity, gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your play.
• Continue the exercises provided by your physical therapist.
• Start with doubles play to reduce the amount of court you have to cover.
• Wear shoes that provide adequate stability and support.
• Warm up before play to prepare your body and cool down after to facilitate recovery.
• Focus on technique and strategy over athleticism.
• Listen to your body, and don’t “push through” pain.
• Be patient and expect temporary setbacks as your body adapts to your new joint.
• Contact your provider if you experience significant pain or swelling or have questions or concerns about your recovery.

Learn About Joint Replacement and Pickleball

If you’re facing joint replacement surgery, talk with your orthopedic surgeon about your post-procedure goals, including returning to the pickleball court. They can help set your expectations based on the specifics of your surgery and provide insights into the recovery process.

If you don’t have a Baptist Health provider, you can find one in our online directory.

Next Steps and Helpful Resources