06 May Preventing Golf Injuries
Preventing Golf Injuries
Golf is a very popular recreational sport within the United States. People often underestimate golf because of the fact that it’s a low-level physical activity, but that’s not always the case as there is always a risk of injury while playing golf. The most common golfing injuries are due to poor mechanics or overuse. There are numerous tips to take into consideration before and while golfing.
Most golf injuries are avoidable. Learning how to swing properly is crucial. Simply understanding the mechanics will help to decrease the risk of injury. Some of the common injuries include back pain, golfer’s elbow, shoulder pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. By learning how to adjust your swing, these injuries can be prevented. A proper posture and evenly utilizing your muscle groups are all important for your swing. You should stand with your feet as far apart as your shoulders and place equal weight on both feet. Refrain from hunching over the golf ball as that can cause back pain.
Next is evenly utilizing your muscle groups. This means you’re not depending on only one part of your body when hitting. The muscles from your wrists to your ankles should have similar pressure applied to them. Overusing a muscle will only increase the risk of injury to that muscle. Last but not least, when learning to perfect your swing, you’ll want to make sure you’re not over swinging. Swinging the club hard and fast is not necessary. Easy swings will not only benefit your score, but also help your body decrease the likelihood of getting hurt. It may be a common tactic in attempt to get the ball to fly further, but it will eventually take toll on the muscles. Club up, and take an easier swing, you’ll be much more happy with the results.
Now that you know the proper way to swing. You should also be aware of what you can do before starting going out for a round. Stretching your hands, wrists, forearms, elbows, shoulders, spine, and pelvis is extremely beneficial due to the fact these are the frequently used body parts in golf. Just like any other type of sport or exercise, warming up and stretching will only help to better your performance and help protect your body.
During your next round, remember to start slow. Consider all of the factors that go into your swing and preventing a golf related injury. Golfing is supposed to be an enjoyable activity, avoid golf-related injuries and you’ll find yourself staying on the links and maybe improving your game as well.
Zoe Fackelman, a physical therapist with Lake Country Physical Therapy and Sportscare, has been an avid golfer since the age of 14. She has long known the aches and pains that accompany the sport. If you want to learn how to prepare your body to increase distance on your shots and drop shots and decrease your chance of injury call Lake Country Physical Therapy & Sportscare today!
Lake Country Physical Therapy & Sportscare PC offers the very best physical therapy in Ontario County. We treat all your wants and needs with our trusted and experienced Physical Therapists and staff. To begin to feel pain and stress free, start your Physical Therapy journey today and schedule your evaluation by calling (585) 396-1400.