The highly anticipated Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia showcases the best golfers in the world.
Tiger Woods, 82-time PGA winner has recently announced that he suffered from a ruptured Achilles tendon, as he began to ramp up his training and practice at home in March and has since undergone surgery.

In this blog, we will cover the most common golfing injuries, understand why these may occur and what can be done to keep you out on the putting green injury-free.

What are the most common golfing injuries?

  • Lower back injuries are considered amongst the most common injuries in both professional and amateur golfers as the forces during the rotational golf swing movement are high.
  • Hand and wrist injuries are very common with evidence suggesting that these areas ate the most vulnerable.
  • Injuries pertaining to the lateral aspect of the elbow are three to five times more common than the inside or medial aspect.
  • Shoulder injuries are also common, seen more frequently in higher handicap players.

Why do these injuries occur?

  • Overload – too much too quickly. This is the most reported reason behind sustained golf-related injuries.
  • Previous history of injury.
  • Swing mechanics – poor swing posture and swing plane.
  • Grip pressure – over gripping.
  • Environment – it has been suggested that a majority of injuries seen with amateur golfers occur at the driving range, not the golf course.

What can I do?

• Load management (arguably, the most important factor)- those that have longer stints in between games or range visits are more likely to experience more significant injuries.
• Regular, preventative exercise that targets improving the strength and capacity of the specific muscles that are directly impacted and the supporting/surrounding muscles too.
• Sufficient warm-up- resist the urge to pull out the driver the first time you swing when practicing at the range and start with smaller, half swings.

Here at CSSM, we work with you to understand your injury and develop a comprehensive plan to improve, no matter your golfing goals. For more golfing specific tips, book in with Grace.

 

About the author

Physiotherapist Grace Rutter believes patients should feel supported whilst being provided tailored education and a comprehensive management plan based upon their rehabilitation and lifestyle goals. 

Grace has a particular interest in neck injuries (including neck related headaches), sporting injuries, women’s health, knee rehabilitation, as well as running injuries. 

With an additional degree in sports and exercise science, Grace has also worked with various high performance athletes including the Port Melbourne VFL club. 

Grace has experience working in acute hospitals (cardio/ musculoskeletal/neuro), subacute settings (geriatric evaluation and management), and women’s health (acute, private, continence clinic), She has also had experience working in private practice. 

Make an appointment with Grace.

References

Robinson, G. P., Clarsen, B., Murray, A., Junge, A., Mountjoy, L. M., Drobny, T., Gill, L.,
Gazzano, F., Voight, M., & Dvorak, J. (2024). A prospective study of injuries and illnesses
among 910 amateur golfers during one season. BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine.
10:e001844.
Kuitunen, I., Ponkilainen, V.T. Injury incidence in golf—a systematic review and metaanalysis. Ir J Med Sci 193, 2803–2811 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-024-
03759-6