Who knew? Golf, often seen as a leisurely pastime, can actually be pretty tough on your body. In fact, studies show that golfers are more likely to get injured than rugby players!
Why is that? Well, it turns out that the repetitive motions and powerful swings involved in golf can put a lot of strain on your muscles and joints. And if you’re not in good shape or have poor technique, your risk of injury is even higher.
Common golf injuries include:
- Back pain: This is the most common golf injury, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor posture, weak core muscles, and degenerative disc disease. A study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine found that nearly 50% of golfers reported experiencing back pain at some point in their careers.
- Shoulder pain: Overusing your shoulder muscles can lead to pain and inflammation. Conditions such as rotator cuff tendinitis and impingement are common among golfers.
- Wrist and hand pain: Repetitive motions can also cause pain in your wrists and hands. Carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis are common injuries in golfers.
So, what can you do to stay healthy and injury-free on the golf course?
- Get in shape: Having a strong and flexible body can help reduce your risk of injury. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that golfers who participated in a targeted strength and conditioning program were less likely to experience injuries.
- Improve your technique: Working with a golf pro can help you develop proper swing mechanics. A good golf swing should be smooth and efficient, and it should minimize stress on your body.
- Warm up before you play: A good warm-up can help prepare your body for the demands of golf. This should include dynamic stretching exercises to increase your range of motion and blood flow.
- Listen to your body: If you’re experiencing pain, take a break and see a physiotherapist. Don’t try to play through the pain, as this can make your injury worse.
At RHP Physiotherapy, we can help you prevent and treat golf injuries. Our experienced physiotherapists can provide you with personalized treatment plans to help you stay healthy and improve your game. We can also teach you how to perform exercises to strengthen your muscles and improve your flexibility.
Want to learn more? Download our free informational fact sheet on golf injury prevention.