Golf combines precision, power and finesse – a combination which may lead to injury.
“As an avid golfer and orthopaedic physician specializing in hands, elbows and shoulders, I’ve seen my fair share of golf-related injuries,” says Peter J. Ostergaard, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at Northwestern Medicine. “In this article, we’ll explore some common injuries golfers face, particularly those related to poor grip, slicing and fat shots.”
1. Shoulder injuries
The shoulder is a crucial joint in the golf swing. Chronic conditions often plague golfers and one common issue is acromioclavicular (AC) joint problems. The AC joint is where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. Overuse, impingement and even arthritis can occur in this area. Golfers, especially those with a right-handed swing, may experience pain over the left AC joint during the backswing. Proper warm-up exercises and maintaining shoulder flexibility can help prevent these issues.
2. Wrist and hand issues
During the set-up phase of the swing, golfers address the ball, and this is where hand and wrist problems often arise. A poor grip plays a significant role, leading to strain on the wrists and hands. Here are some tips to avoid wrist and hand injuries:
· Proper grip: A neutral grip allows for better control without excessive tension
· Wrist position: Maintain a flat left wrist (for right-handed golfers) during the swing. Excessive cupping or bending can strain the wrist
· Warm-up: Stretch and rotate your wrists before hitting the course
3. Slicing and its impact
Slicing occurs when the ball curves significantly from left to right (for right-handed golfers). This swing flaw often results from an open clubface at impact. The body compensates by overusing certain muscles, leading to strain. Here’s how slicing affects different areas:
· Lead shoulder: The left shoulder (for right-handed golfers) takes the brunt of the force during the downswing. Over time, this can cause AC joint pain
· Forearm muscles: Excessive twisting can strain the muscles responsible for controlling the clubface during impact
· Elbow: Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) can occur if the forearm muscles are overworked. This is one of the more common forms of tendonitis for golfers
4. Fat shots and their toll on the body
A fat shot happens when the club strikes the ground before making contact with the ball. This impact can reverberate through the body, leading to various injuries:
· Wrist: The sudden jolt can strain the wrist joint
· Elbow: Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) may develop due to the shock transmitted to the inner elbow
· Shoulder: The impact can stress the shoulder joint and surrounding muscles
Prevention strategies
· Proper warm-up: Always warm up before playing. Gentle stretches and swings help prepare your muscles
· Strength and flexibility: Regular strength training and flexibility exercises can enhance your game and prevent injuries
“As we welcome spring and return to the golf course, remember that moderation is key. Don’t rush into playing 40 rounds a week,” Dr. Ostergaard cautions. “Just like any exercise, start gradually. Hitting 100 golf shots five times a week can lead to overuse injuries. Stretching beforehand and easing into the season are essential. Golf may seem leisurely, but repetitive high-velocity swings take their toll over time.”
Specializing in hand, elbow and shoulder care, Dr. Ostergaard is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon at Northwestern Medicine with a passion for helping golfers stay healthy and on the green.