Just like any other sport, golf presents many an opportunity for players to injure themselves — especially if they play frequently, play with improper form or technique, or rush their way through a round. However, it is important to note that these injuries do not just affect new players, but even old professionals as well.
With that being said, here is a list of the 5 most common golf injuries (and what you can do to avoid them):
Knee pain
Any number of factors can contribute to a golfer’s knee pain — poor stance, putting extreme force into a swing, or even arthritis.
The best way to combat this discomfort is stretching your hamstrings, calves, thighs, and core muscles before and after a round. Additionally, players should be sure to wear comfortable and supportive shoes and rest and ice their joints as necessary.
Back pain
The most common pain golfers feel is in their lower back — a result of spending hours hunched over their golf clubs — however, it should come as no surprise if you feel shooting or stabbing pains between your shoulder blades, either.
In order to prevent this pain, ensure you are in the proper stance, keeping your back straight and your knees slightly bent. If you encounter any discomfort, you can treat it with alternating ice and heat, rest, a deep tissue massage, or even a trip to your chiropractor.
Rotator cuff injury
One’s rotator cuff consists of four stabilizing muscles located in each shoulder. When an injury occurs, these muscles can swell or even tear and impair mobility.
To prevent such an injury, be sure to practice proper form and practice regular strength training and stretching exercises. However, if you are already suffering from a rotator cuff injury, it can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation — or the RICE method.
Hip pain
The hip joints are one of the most flexible in the body, as they are the very crux of our mobility. Although they can withstand great amounts of pressure and other stresses, they are especially vulnerable to injury during a game of golf, seeing as swings require a great amount of exertion and pivoting.
Preventing this injury is rather simple — stretching your thigh, calf, and core muscles as well as your hamstrings. However, treating it is more difficult. If you are experiencing golf-related hip pain, it would be best for you to see your general practitioner as soon as possible.
Tendinitis
Just like our muscles, our tendons are susceptible to becoming inflamed or irritated. This often occurs due to overuse and improper form. If left untreated, tendinitis can permanently impair one’s mobility and flexibility.
Therefore, to prevent this from occurring, be sure to use proper technique in every game, followed by plenty of rest. If you are experiencing chronic pain, visit your general practitioner — they may be able to suggest anti-inflammatory medication to aid you in your recovery.
