Summer is the perfect time to spend outdoors, enjoying your favorite activities, and for many, that includes spending time on the golf course. While golf is often seen as a low-impact sport, it can still lead to injuries, especially during the summer months when people are more likely to be active.
The orthopedic specialists at Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians see numerous golf-related injuries during the summertime. Here are some of the most common summertime golf injuries and some ways to prevent them.
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury among golfers. It occurs when the tendons on the inside of the elbow become inflamed due to repetitive motion, such as swinging a golf club. Symptoms may include pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, as well as weakness in the hands and wrists.
Prevention: To prevent golfer’s elbow, it’s essential to maintain proper swing mechanics and strengthen the muscles in the arms and wrists through targeted exercises.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing for a wide range of motion. Rotator cuff injuries can occur in golfers due to the repetitive motion of the golf swing, leading to pain and limited shoulder mobility.
Prevention: To reduce the risk of rotator cuff injuries, it’s important to maintain shoulder flexibility and strength through specific exercises and stretches. Additionally, proper warm-up and cool-down routines can help prevent these injuries.
Lower Back Pain
The rotational nature of the golf swing can put significant stress on the lower back, leading to muscle strains, disc injuries and other sources of lower back pain. The repetitive twisting motion can exacerbate existing issues or create new ones.
Prevention: Core strength and flexibility are crucial for preventing lower back pain in golfers. Engaging in targeted exercises that strengthen the core muscles can help support the lower back and reduce the risk of injury.
Sprains and Strains
Golf places stress on various parts of the body that can cause sprains and strains. These injuries can lead to inflammation in joints, muscles or connective tissue in parts of the body required for your well-practiced swing.
Prevention: Focus on maintaining overall physical fitness and flexibility. Engaging in targeted exercises that strengthen the core muscles can help support the body and reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, warming up before playing and paying attention to proper swing mechanics can help minimize the risk of sprains and strains.
Golf Injuries Treatment
While golf is a relaxing and enjoyable sport, it’s important to be mindful of the potential for injuries, especially during the summer months. By paying attention to proper swing mechanics, warming up before playing and maintaining overall physical fitness, golfers can minimize the risk of common summertime golf injuries and enjoy the season to its fullest.
If you sustain an injury while playing golf, the orthopedic specialists at Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians can help. Contact the nearest of our 27 clinics to schedule an exam and consultation so we can determine the problem and help you find relief.
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