THIS POST IS PART OF THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SPORTS MEDICINE
Summer is in full swing which means so are a lot of golf clubs. Golfing is a great way to get outside, enjoy the weather and do something active. Men and women of all ages enjoy golfing; however, some people may not realize that over time, golfing can cause you a lot of injuries.
What causes golfing injuries?
Your golf swing plays a big factor in whether or not you’ll get injured during play. Some of the most common injuries originate with your swing. These include:
- Poor swing mechanics
- Overuse
- Over swinging
- Incorrect grip
- Spine stress from over rotation
- Force to the body from poor swinging
Some of the most common injuries are:
- Back pain
- Elbow tendonitis
- Golfer’s Elbow
- Knee pain
- Rotator cuff tears
- Hand, wrist and finger injuries
All of these injuries can be prevented by careful stretching and proper technique.
Tendinitis of the wrist and elbow, carpal tunnel and hook of the hamate fracture are the most common golfing injuries.
What are the symptoms of common golfing injuries?
- Pain in the wrist
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Sharp pain in the palm of the hand
How are golf injuries treated?
If you seek treatment for golf related injuries usually your orthopedic specialist will perform a physical exam and possibly an X-ray.
If your symptoms progress, particularly the numbness, it is important to have your hands evaluated to avoid permanent nerve damage in the hands.
Depending on the severity of the injury, the treatment options will range from splinting to a cortisone injection. With carpal tunnel treatment, surgery or release of a tendon is necessary. It takes four to six weeks to recover from most of these injuries.
How do you prevent golf injuries?
Preventing golfing injuries begins with preparation to play, like any sport. A few suggestions include:
- Condition before the season begins
- Warm up before play
- Use proper technique
- Periodic assessments by a golf pro
If you are assessed by a golf pro every once in a while, it can prevent most injuries. Their technique is close to perfect and they can help you make golf a great form of recreation and exercise without injuring yourself.
Learn more about sports medicine treatment at OrthoIndy.
Schedule an appointment
Your well-being is important to us. Click the button below or call us to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists. If your injury or condition is recent, you can walk right into one of our OrthoIndy Urgent Care locations for immediate care. For rehabilitation and physical therapy, no referral is needed to see one of our physical therapists.
