How Pickleball Helps Manage Arthritis

Promotes Healthy Blood Flow

When individuals are inactive, blood does not flow through the body at the rate it should. Good blood flow is necessary to take healing nutrients to joints damaged by arthritis. The blood also needs to keep moving to draw toxins and impurities out of the joints so they may be removed by normal body functions. One way to get the blood moving freely is for individuals to engage in activities that increase their heart rate. Not only does the blood flow more quickly when the heart is beating faster, but cardiovascular exercise makes the heart stronger, allowing it to push a greater volume of blood with each heartbeat even while individuals are at rest. As a good weight-bearing and cardio activity, pickleball promotes healthy blood flow.

Acts As A Low-Impact Exercise

Although cardiovascular activities are important to keep joints and surrounding tissues strong and flexible, too much can be damaging. When individuals have arthritis, the best way to keep limber is to avoid high-impact aerobic activity, such as running, jumping, and other high-energy activities that can strain or injure their already sensitive joints. Pickleball is considered a low-impact sport, and does not require a lot of jumping and bouncing that could increase inflammation and pain in the joints. Because pickleball acts as a low-impact exercise, it is no wonder that seniors and individuals with arthritis or other health problems are embracing it as a good way to get the physical activity they need.