GOLF

A golf swing requires the movement of nearly every part of the body. Joints twist, bend and rotate, exerting force and causing pressure throughout the bones, tendons and ligaments of the body. Accordingly, sprains and strains are the most common injuries.

A condition known as golfer’s elbow can cause pain on the inside of the elbow. It is a result of a tear of the tendon attachment to the bone. It is generally associated with pain with gripping. Ice, anti-inflammatories, stretching and steroid injections are the main treatments. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

A less common injury is a fracture of the hand. This happens when the force of the swing is directed back through the club when striking the ground on an errant swing.

Rest is important for both prevention and recovery. Appropriately sized clubs are also necessary. Serious golfers would be well-advised to have their swing evaluated for proper mechanics. When prevention is no longer an option, surgical procedures can be performed to remedy pain, allowing the golfer to get back to the course.