Golf is one of the best sports in existence. For one thing, golf allows people of all ages and ability levels to enjoy the great outdoors while also getting some exercise. Furthermore, golf is a technically challenging sport that requires a high level of patience and perseverance.
However, just like any sport or physical activity, golf comes with its fair share of injuries. In this article, we will review 5 of the most common golf-related injuries and outline how chiropractic care can help patients heal from these afflictions.
1. Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s Elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a debilitating injury. The issue is caused by excessive, repetitive motion that stresses the tendons on the inside of the elbow.
With enough rest, Golfer’s Elbow will usually resolve. However, this is the last thing an avid golfer wants to hear. After all, resting means time away from the links!
In some people, the condition can last for months or years and can become so painful that even lifting a glass of water is unbearable.
Luckily, there are some strategies that can help golfer’s overcome or even avoid this issue entirely. One method of addressing Golfer’s Elbow is to work with a swing coach. These pros can help to identify any weak points in your swing and they will help you avoid this costly injury.
2. Low Back Pain
Because of the nature of the sport, back pain is extremely common in golfers. This is because swinging a golf club requires you to bend forward slightly and rotate through your trunk.
In individuals who have excellent core strength and flexibility, back pain can usually be avoided. However, sometimes the grip of back pain will affect even the most prepared people on the course.
3. Rotator Cuff Tears
In a sport that relies so heavily on the shoulders, it’s no surprise that rotator cuff tears would be a common occurrence.
The rotator cuff is made up of four distinct, yet related, muscles and their corresponding tendons. Any one of these structures can be injured by a repetitive golf swing. Unfortunately, a rotator cuff tear can sideline a golfer for a year or longer.
4. Knee Pain
Many golf courses are built on hilly terrain. While this can make for a fun outing and some difficult shots, it also often leads to injuries.
Knee pain is very common amongst golfers, especially those who don’t use golf carts and elect to complete the course on foot. Knee pain can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life. From golfing to simply standing, there are very few activities that don’t rely on the use of our knees.
Depending on the specific injury underlying the pain, knee issues can last for a few days, many months, or years.
5. Hip Injuries
Along with low back injuries, hips tend to take the brunt of the force related to heavy rotation during a golf swing. Many golfers suffer from diffuse hip pain or specific injuries to this area of the body.
Additionally, as is the case with knee pain, walking up and down the often-hilly golf courses can lead to serious hip pain, if left untreated.
Chiropractic Care for Golfers
Golfers who work with chiropractors tend to be better able to overcome any injuries. Furthermore, regular chiropractic visits can also help patients avoid suffering from injuries in the first place. By performing spinal manipulations on the appropriate segments of the back, your chiropractor can prepare you for the demands you’ll face on the course.
If you’re a golfer, book your appointment today with At Last Chiropractic, your go-to chiropractor in Lithia, FL. Get back to the activities you know and love.
