Golf may seem like a leisurely, relaxing game, with a low risk for injury. However, the modern golfer, both amateur and professional, is at risk for injury due to the stress placed on several parts of the body during the golf swing. The modern swing emphasizes coiling of the upper body against a stable lower on the backswing, followed by rapid uncoiling during the swing and follow-through. This action places the lower back, the wrists, and the leading elbow at risk for injury. Attention to proper swing technique, proper club fitting, and improved overall fitness can help the average golfer avoid these injuries.
1. Lower Back Injuries:
Muscle Strain: Tight coiling of the upper body against the stable lower body leaves the golfer vulnerable to muscle injuries at the top of the swing.
Herniated Disc: Excessive twisting with inadequate muscle support from generally poor physical conditioning increases the risk for disc herniations.
Facet Joint Disease: Lack of core muscle strength increases the load on the facet joints of the spine, leading to degeneration over time.
Prevention: Attention to proper swing technique can help reduce the stress placed on the lower back. A qualified golf instructor can help most individuals improve swing technique. Additionally, attention to overall fitness, especially the core muscles of the back/midsection, will reduce stress on the spine, and prevent muscle strain.
2. Wrist Injuries:
Tendonitis: Lack of proper wrist control, with excessive pronation or supination of the wrists during the swing, can lead to tendonitis. Repetitive strain of the tendons results in inflammation and pain. The leading wrist (left wrist in the right handed golfer) is affected more often than the trailing wrist.
Fracture: Although relatively uncommon, fracture of the hamate bone of the wrist (located near the base of the pinky) is associated with swinging a golf club or a racquet. A small part of the hamate bone juts out from its palmar surface (the “hook” of the hamate), and is vulnerable to fracture during a forceful swing.
Prevention: Attention to proper hand action during the swing can help prevent tendonitis and fractures of the wrist. Additionally, proper club fitting can help prevent hamate fractures. Clubs should be of the appropriate length, with the “butt” or end of the club extending just beyond the palm of the hand.
3. Elbow Injuries:
Repetitive strain on the extensor (straightening) tendon of the forearm, located on the outer aspect of the elbow, leads to inflammation and pain. This syndrome also can occur in racquet sports (tennis elbow).
Lateral Epicondylitis
Medial Epicondylitis: Repetitive strain on the flexor (bending) tendon, due to hyperextension of the elbow, leads to pain and inflammation. The pain involves the inner portion of the elbow in medial epicondylitis, as opposed to the outer portion in lateral epicondylitis.
Prevention: Improving overall fitness, with specific attention to strengthening the forearms, will decrease the risk of medial/lateral epicondylitis. Additionally, proper club fitting can prevent injury. Using larger grips and more flexible shafts on clubs will reduce elbow strain, and decrease risk of injury.
For more information: See sportsinjurybulletin.com
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