Common Golf Injuries and Prevention Tips

Golf may look effortless when legends at the Hoag Classic drive it down the fairway, but swinging the clubs can place some serious demands on the body. From high-speed rotational forces to repetitive swings, golf can stress the spine, elbows and shoulders. At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, we care for professional athletes and everyday golfers alike, treating the most common golf-related injuries and helping players return to the game safely, efficiently and pain-free.

Back and Neck Pain: When the Swing Stresses the Spine

Low back pain is one of the most common injuries in golf due to limited hip or spine mobility, poor posture, over-rotation and weak core and glute muscles. In many golfers, neck pain and stiffness are also part of the same problem.

“Golf places significant rotational stress on the lumbar spine, especially when flexibility and core strength are lacking,” said Casey Slattery, MD, an HOI-affiliated spine surgeon. “Over time, that stress can lead to muscle strains, disc irritation and chronic back pain if not addressed early.”

Common Elbow Injuries in Golfers: Elbow Tendonitis

Another common injury for golfers is elbow tendonitis, commonly referred to as either tennis elbow or golf elbow.

• Tennis elbow is an injury to the tendon on the outside part of the elbow, caused by overswinging, excessive swing speed or repeated impact with the ground.
• Golfer’s elbow occurs in the inner elbow, often caused by improper grip technique, which can send pain down the forearm.

“Elbow injuries in golf are often technique-related,” explained John Ibrahim, MD, an HOI-affiliated orthopedic surgeon specializing in upper extremity conditions. “Small adjustments in grip pressure, swing mechanics and equipment can significantly reduce strain on the elbow and help prevent long-term tendon damage.”

Shoulder Injuries: Rotator Cuff Tears and Impingement

The shoulder is another area vulnerable to injury due to the speed and repetition of the golf swing. The most common injuries golfers experience include:

• Rotator cuff tears and tendinitis
• Shoulder impingement
• Labral irritation

“Swinging a golf club requires both power and precision, placing high demands on the shoulder joint,” said Taylor Dunphy, MD, an HOI-affiliated sports medicine surgeon. “Without proper strength and flexibility, the rotator cuff is at risk for irritation or tearing, particularly in players who golf frequently.”

Injury Prevention Tips for Golfers

By focusing on proper technique, conditioning and preparation, golfers can reduce their risk of injury and stay active on the course longer.

• Consistent warm up: Stretching and gradually increasing activity before a round will help loosen muscles, improve mobility and reduce injury risk before the first tee.
  • Back and Hip Stretches: For the lower back, try trunk rotations, knee-to-chest stretches with the foot supported on a bench or golf cart, and gentle IT band stretches by bending down to touch one foot at a time.
  • Shoulder Stretches: Gentle cross-body shoulder stretches, pulling the arm down and across the torso, as well as placing a club behind the back or across the shoulders and rotating side to side.
• Use the right equipment: In addition to clubs that fit your body, look for golf shoes with adequate support and traction to reduce further injury.
• Avoid overuse injuries: Overuse injuries can happen gradually. Prioritize rest days and listen to your body to ensure you don’t overwork your muscles and cause additional strain.
• Seek expert care when needed: If your pain increases to where you cannot play golf comfortably, consult with an expert orthopedic and sports medicine specialist, like the team at Hoag Orthopedic Institute, who can diagnosis your injury and help get you back on the course.