Is Golf the Injury-Free Sport you Think it is?

sports injuries nyc | spinal injuries nycWhen we are fortunate enough to have nice weather, one of the busiest places around is the golf course. This sport has become one of the most popular in our country, drawing amateurs in every year. The problem with getting into the game of golf is that there are risks for injury that could be easily overlooked.

Want to Hit the Links? You Might want to Hit the Gym First!

Study findings suggest that there is a direct correlation between a person’s performance on the golf course and his or her strength. Specifically, the strength of the hip muscles. One such study was published in the American College of Sports Medicine. The report stated that, according to research, strong hip muscles related to longer driving distance and lower handicap as compared to weak hip muscles. This is in line with what orthopaedic surgeons know: that the hip muscles are integral to the stabilization of the trunk, as well as to the balance between the lower body and the arms in the performance of the golf swing.

It’s Not All in the Hips

Many people perceive golf as a “safe” sport in terms of the risk for injury. Sure, there may be an incredibly low risk of collision, except for a runaway golf cart; but there are ample opportunities for the golfer to sustain an injury due to improper form or poor body mechanics. The fact is, if the body is not ready to perform the repetitive motions of golf (or any other sport), injury could occur. For the golf game to go as planned, the body, as well as the mind, must be prepared. In addition to envisioning the long drive or hole-in-one, a golfer is encouraged to warm up properly for the winning, injury-free swing.

The primary problem that golfers face is the overuse injury. The risk for damage due to overuse is increased in individuals who lack strength and flexibility in the elbow, shoulder, and abdominal muscles. Without adequate strength and flexibility, the force that is placed on the body could cause undue stress to tendons. This could lead to “golfer’s elbow,” a form of tendonitis, nerve impingement in the shoulder, low back pain, and more.

Schedule a consultation

Who would have thought that crunches and push-ups could help one’s golf game! Here’s hoping for an injury-free golf season. Should you need assistance for chronic pain related to a sporting injury or overuse, call our New York City orthopaedic office at 212-606-1004 today! Dr. Todd Albert serves New York City and the surrounding areas.

Get In Touch

* All indicated fields must be completed.
Please include non-medical questions and correspondence only.

Accessibility Toolbar