Sports Medicine - Golf Health ׀ by Chai Rasavong, MPT, MBA

Golf is a fun sport which at a glance may not appear to be as strenuous compared to other popular sports such as football, baseball or basketball. However, a typical golf swing can exert pressure and torque on the shoulders, back, hips and mid-section which could result in injury. The best way to prevent injury is to ensure that proper mechanics/posture are utilized along with a proper warm up and stretching routine.

Your posture is not only vital to the successful execution of your golf swing but to your health as well. Poor mechanics/posture results in over 90% of all swing errors and at many times may be the cause for injury. Proper mechanics/posture should be utilized throughout the four stages of a swing: 1) backswing 2) downswing 3) ball strike & 4) follow through. It is essential that your body works together and efficiently in order to coordinate a successful swing cycle.

Some general recommendations to follow for setting up for a golf swing includes: · set the club face squarely behind the ball perpendicular to the target line · bend from the hip sockets and not from the back or waist · knees should be bent slightly · establish a good base of support (shoulder width apart) · set your shoulders, hips, and feet square to and parallel with the target line · keep your posterior end protruded and eyes on the ball

Stretching plays an important role in the success of an athlete’s performance and in preventing injury. This aspect of exercise is quite often forgotten or neglected by both athletes or individuals who participate in exercise. Quite often, physical therapists see many individuals who could have prevented their injuries if they had performed proper stretching exercises that would have helped them improve or maintain their flexibility. The scientific literature that is available is controversial on whether stretching is beneficial or not but it can be concluded that when stretching is performed properly, it can help improve flexibility.

Prior to participation in an event that requires physical exertion, it is recommended that you stretch and warm up in order to prepare your body for activity. Stretching can help decrease the tightness of your muscles and tendons and help improve the range of motion at various joints such as your knee or ankle. Since muscles and tendons assist in moving a joint, they need to be able to move a joint through the full range of motion when participating in various activities such as running, jumping or biking. Should these muscles be tight, than they are more likely to be pulled or injured. Some common stretches for your calf, hamstring, quadriceps, groin and hip flexors are available for observation along with instruction on video clips.

An important concept, which is often forgotten, is to remember to stretch after participation in athletics or exercise. The rationale behind stretching after participation in physical activities is that your muscles and tendons are already warmed up and will be more easily stretched. You are more likely to gain and maintain flexibility while minimizing muscle soreness and fatigue by stretching after exercise.

Some common guidelines for stretching are: 1. do not overstretch but do stretch to the point of  slight discomfort. 2. hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds and don’t bounce. 3. stretch both sides when stretching. 4. stretch all major muscle groups (ie. calves, hamstrings, quadriceps, groin, hip flexors) videos 08, 25, 28, 30 and 24. To print out a handout of various stretches please click here: Golf Stretches Handout

Golf is a dynamic sport that utilizes the entire body to generate a specific sequence of motion. Having strong muscles can help you withstand stresses and injury to various regions of your body and help improve your endurance, speed and performance. The power required for a golf swing is not generated through your shoulders but rather through your core, hips, and legs. Having sufficient strength in these regions can not only help you improve your game but minimize injury as well.

	Rotation on Stability Ball with Dumbbell With your upper back on the stability ball and your hands straight up in the air with a dumbbell, rotate your trunk to one side utilizing your abdominal muscles while keeping your hips and legs locked. Your arms should be maintained in a straight position throughout this exercise. Repeat with the other side. Perform 8-10 reps for each side for 2-3 sets.
	Single Arm Rows on Stability Ball In a partial squat position, rest your free arm in a straight outstretched position on the stability ball. Make sure your back is straight throughout this exercise and bring the arm holding the dumbbell straight back by bending at the elbow and pinching your shoulder blade. Perform 8-10 reps for each side for 2-3 sets.
	Split Squat with Dumbbells With dumbbells in each hand, perform a deep squat while maintaining an erect and straight back. Your knee which is in front of you should never go past your toes. Repeat with the other leg and continue to alternate legs. Perform 8-10 reps for each side for 2-3 sets.

The repetitive motion of the golf swing along with the forces which are generated can result in stresses on the muscles and joints of the body. Injuries can occur as a result of overuse or from trauma when performing the golf swing. Often times, many individuals ignore the warning signs of an injury by playing through the pain, tightness or abnormal sensation that they are experiencing. Listed below are some common injuries sustained by golfers in the back, lower extremities, and upper extremities which are treated by physical therapists. To learn more please click on the condition below:

Last revised: May 1, 2008
by Chai Rasavong, MPT