Last Updated Jul 2011
Despite a recent New York Times article indicating a decline in the number of people who play golf, more than 25 million Americans can still be found on the course every year. And though it may not seem as heavy-hitting a sport as football or as tough on the knees as basketball, golf accounts for a significant number of injuries in both men and women.
Statistics show 60 percent of professional golfers and 40 percent of amateurs suffered either a traumatic or overuse injury while golfing—many of which could have been prevented through simple pre-game stretching exercises. Through proper treatment and education, therapy professionals can help patients recover from golf-related injuries as well as prevent future injuries.
Common Golf-related Injuries
In order for the body to meet the physical demands of golf, it needs a balance of flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, endurance, posture and good body mechanics. When any piece of the puzzle is missing, however, the result can be debilitating injury. Following are some of the most common golf-related injuries.
• Elbow pain/pressure
• Hand/wrist pain and stiffness
• Herniated disc
• Mid/low back injuries
• Muscle spasms/cramps
• Muscle strain
• Neck/shoulder pain
• Sciatica (sharp pain in buttocks and back of thigh)
The PRICE Principal for Relief and Recovery
When any acute injury has been sustained, the PRICE principal is recommended to help relieve the pain associated with golf-related injuries and assist with recovery. PRICE stands for Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation and can help patients remember these key recovery techniques:
• Protection: Protect the injured area from further injury. Most injuries take a full six to eight weeks to heal completely. However, activity such as golfing may resume much sooner if performed in a controlled manner.
• Rest: Rest the affected area at least 24 to 48 hours to minimize swelling. This includes staying off the golf course or driving range for 24 to 48 hours.
• Ice: Ice two to three times a day for the first three days after injury. This will minimize swelling and pain.
• Compression: Wrap the affected area with an ace wrap, neoprene compression sleeve, or other similar device that keeps swelling to a minimum. These devices also allow early protected movement of the injured area. Compression is too tight if you notice decreased skin temperature, discoloration, numbness or increased pain.
• Elevation: When possible, elevate the affected extremity above heart level for two to four hours a day or more as you are able to tolerate. This will further reduce swelling and pain to the injured area.
A Word about NSAIDs
NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are common over-the-counter medications that relieve pain, fever and inflammation. They include aspirin and ibuprofen and may provide additional relief for patients suffering from golf-related injuries. It is always advisable to consult a physician before beginning any over-the-counter medications secondary to possible drug interactions that may occur with other medications.
From Injury to Peak Performance
As with any injury, helping patients recover from injuries sustained on the golf course involves a comprehensive care plan that takes into account all aspects of treatment and recovery. Successful golf rehabilitation involves breaking the cycle of injury and ensuring not just a better golf game, but a better quality of life.
For more information on effective treatment and rehabilitation methods for golf-related injuries, including proven posture, stretching, balance and strengthening exercises, view our comprehensive course Back in Golf – Rehabilitation Techniques.
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