Although most people would agree that golf is not considered a strenuous sport, the mechanics of the golf swing and the nearly 25 million participants sets the stage for a certain percentage of golf related injuries. Golf, unlike most other sports, is played by people of all ages, body types, and can be played throughout one's life.
A wide range of musculoskeletal injuries is associated with these factors in both the professional and amateur golfer. The motion of the golf swing requires large forces generated in trunk rotation and shoulder motion through a wide range of motion at high speed.
Comparison studies between the professional and amateur golfer indicate a high incidence of hand and wrist injuries in the professional golfer and elbow and back injuries in the amateur golfer. Differences between the groups may be related to conditioning, differing swing mechanics and an older average of the amateur golfer as compared to the professional golfer.
Training error or too much play or practice all contribute to the repetitive microtrauma (wear and tear) that leads to overuse injuries. The hand and wrist are susceptible to injuries from excessive ground contact combined with increased grip strength. The constant impact of the club to the ground can lead to ligament injury (sprains) in the wrist and potential stress fractures.
To avoid injury while participating in golf, there are several key things you can do:
- Warm up fully before playing by lightly hitting balls with your short irons.
- Be sure to stretch. Golf requires a fine balance of strength and flexibility in all muscle groups to produce a smooth and coordinated swing.
- Overall fitness will make a better golf score and decrease risk of injury.
Related Links
