The Biggest Golf Injuries and How to Treat Them

Nothing ruins your golf game like a golf injury. Whether you suffered the damage during a golfing match, or some other fitness activity, it's impossible to maintain a good swing when your elbows, wrists, shoulders, or legs are in pain. Here are a few of the most common golf injuries to look out for, as well as the best ways to treat them.

Golfing Elbow Injuries

The most common golfing injury is the aptly named Golfer’s Elbow. Similar to as tennis elbow or elbow tendonitis, Golfer’s Elbow is characterized by irritation and inflammation of the outer or inner elbow tendon. The best way to treat Golfer’s Elbow is with rest, anti-inflammatory NSAID drugs, and ice. Elbow compression sleeves can also help treat and prevent this painful condition by providing support for the joints and tendons.

Golfing Wrist Injuries

Since golfing involves a lot of repetitive wrist movements, golfing wrist injuries are very common. Wrist tendonitis, particularly on the top part of the wrist, can be especially problematic for golfers. The best way to treat golfing wrist injuries is with rest and anti-inflammatory medicines. Wrist braces and wrist compression sleeves can also provide warmth and support to the wrists as they recover. Stretches used to prevent carpal tunnel may also help to prevent and relieve wrist pain.

Golfing Lower Back Injuries

One of the most common golf injuries is lower back strain caused by herniated or slipped discs. Muscle strain, ligament stress, and facet joint damage can also cause significant back pain for golfers. The best way to treat minor lower back injuries is through the application of heat, either with hot baths or warm compresses. Make sure to see a doctor when you begin to experience lower back injuries of any kind, however, as even mild symptoms can be indications of a larger issue.

Golfing Neck Injuries

As golfers swing their clubs, they make a swift, twisting motion that can eventually lead to neck pain or injury. Neck soreness, spasms, and pinched nerves all be caused or exacerbated by golfing. To prevent neck golf injuries, be sure to perform neck strengthening exercises before each game. To treat neck injuries, use heat, anti-inflammatory medication, or prescription muscle relaxants, depending on the severity of the injury.

Golfing Shoulder Injuries

Golfers tend to damage their shoulders more than any other body part. The most common golf shoulder injuries include shoulder bursitis, shoulder tendonitis, and rotator cuff damage. Most minor shoulder injuries can be treated with rest and anti-inflammatory drugs. In cases of severe or ongoing pain, however, surgical treatment may be necessary. If you have not yet experienced a golfing shoulder injury, you can prevent one from forming by modifying your golf swing and incorporating strength training into your regular exercise routine.

Golfing Foot and Ankle Injuries

A wide number of foot injuries can affect golfers, including ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, blisters, plantar fasciitis, and foot swelling. Many of these injuries can be easily treated at home with rest, foot soaks in warm water, and anti-inflammatory pain relievers. Golfing foot injuries can be prevented by wearing comfortable golf shoes, improving your stance, and wearing compression foot sleeves.

Prevent and Treat Golf Injuries with OrthoSleeve

The best way to prevent golf injuries is by maintaining a proper posture, staying smooth in your transfers, and avoiding over-swinging. Warming up before each game, improving your muscle strength, and increasing your flexibility and endurance can also help. You may also try wearing compression sleeves, which can reduce your risk of injury by providing warmth and support to the muscles and ligaments. To learn more about how compression sleeves can help prevent injuries, click here.