Coming Soon - Can I Play After a Joint Replacement?

Thinking about getting back on the pickleball court after a hip or knee replacement? You're not alone—and there's good news. A recent study (Jan 2025) offers encouraging insights for players recovering from total joint arthroplasty who are eager to return to the game they love. Whether you’re a die-hard pickleballer or just hoping to rally with friends again, this research sheds light on recovery timelines, safety, and what to expect as you make your comeback. Let’s dive into the findings!

Returning to Pickleball and Racket Sports After Total Joint Arthroplasty: Insights from Recent Research

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA)—commonly involving hip or knee replacements—is a transformative surgery designed to restore function and reduce pain in individuals with joint damage. For many active adults, maintaining an active lifestyle post-surgery is a priority, and engaging in sports like pickleball has become increasingly popular. A recent study by Taylor et al. (2025), published in The Journal of Arthroplasty, explores the important question: Can patients return safely to pickleball and other racket sports after TJA?

Overview of the Study

Taylor and colleagues conducted a comprehensive evaluation of patients who underwent total joint arthroplasty to assess their ability to return to racket sports, including pickleball. The study looked into outcomes such as:

• Time taken to return to sports activities

• Functional performance post-TJA

• Rates of complications or implant failure related to athletic activity

• Patient satisfaction and quality of life after returning to racket sports

Key Findings

1. High Return-to-Sport Rates:
   The majority of patients successfully returned to playing pickleball and similar activities after surgery. The average time to return was typically within 3 to 6 months, depending on individual recovery and rehabilitation progress.

2. Improved Functional Outcomes:
   Participants demonstrated notable improvements in joint function and pain reduction, allowing them to engage comfortably in dynamic movements required for racket sports, including lateral movements, quick direction changes, and stabilizing actions.

3. Low Complication Rates:
   The study found no significant increase in implant-related complications directly attributed to participation in pickleball or other racket sports post-TJA, suggesting that with proper rehabilitation and precautions, active lifestyle engagement is safe.

4. Positive Impact on Quality of Life:
   Returning to sports contributed significantly to patients’ overall well-being, mental health, and social engagement. Many expressed increased satisfaction with their surgery outcomes due to regained mobility and participation in preferred activities.

Practical Implications for Pickleball Players Post-Arthroplasty

Based on these findings, Pickleball Health Hub encourages players recovering from total joint arthroplasty to consider the following best practices:

• Follow Structured Rehabilitation Programs: Collaborate closely with physical therapists to develop a tailored recovery plan that gradually reintroduces sport-specific movements.

• Focus on Strength and Stability: Emphasize exercises that improve joint stability, muscle strength, and proprioception to minimize injury risk.

• Start Slowly and Progress Gradually: Begin with low-impact drills and shorter sessions before advancing to full gameplay intensity.

• Listen to Your Body: Avoid pushing through pain or discomfort, and seek medical advice if unusual symptoms arise.

• Use Proper Technique and Equipment: Ensure paddles, sneakers, and playing surfaces support optimal biomechanics and reduce joint stress.

Conclusion

The research by Taylor et al. provides reassuring evidence that returning to pickleball and racket sports after total joint arthroplasty is not only feasible but beneficial for many patients. With thoughtful rehabilitation and attention to injury prevention, individuals can safely enjoy the physical and social rewards of active pickleball play post-surgery.

At Pickleball Health Hub, we remain committed to supporting your journey toward safe and sustained participation in pickleball. Whether you’re preparing for surgery or recovering, integrating evidence-based injury prevention and wellness strategies will help you stay on the court and enjoy every match to the fullest.

References:
Taylor, A. J., Braathen, D. L., Blackburn, B. E., Peters, C. L., Pelt, C. E., Gililland, J. M., ... & Anderson, L. A. (2025). Can I Pickle Doc? Return to Pickleball and Other Racket Sports After Total Joint Arthroplasty. The Journal of Arthroplasty.