How to Avoid Shoulder Pain While Playing Golf

Do you love golf, but have a shoulder injury? In many cases, you can still play your favorite sport if you take the right precautions. Protect your shoulder using the following tips and learn when you need a specialist’s help.

How to Prevent Shoulder Pain From Golf

According to the Mayo Clinic, many golf-related shoulder injuries come from improper mechanics or overexertion. You can keep your shoulder in good shape by:

• Using the Right Equipment: Make sure you use the appropriate golf clubs for your height and weight. A golf professional can help you find a set that improves your performance and reduces strain on your shoulder. Remember to wear golf shoes that fit your feet so they help you use the right form.

• Practicing Correct Technique: Your swing has the biggest impact on the muscles throughout your body, including your shoulder muscles. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your spine straight. A proper golf swing involves all parts of the body instead of just one. Relying on your shoulders or back to power your swing can result in excess strain. If you find yourself sore after every round of golf, ask a professional to coach you on your technique.

• Strengthening Your Shoulder With Exercise: Basic strength training that focuses on your shoulder and back muscles will improve their endurance and flexibility. You can work with a personal trainer to find exercises compatible with any shoulder conditions you have.

• Warm up Before Your Games: Just like with any other sport, warming up before playing golf reduces your risk of injury. Stretches, jumping jacks and swing practice will keep your muscles flexible.

Following the best practices for golf players improves your game and protects your shoulder.

Precautions to Take When Playing Golf With Shoulder Tendonitis

If you have a shoulder issue like tendonitis, you can make golf safer for your shoulder by taking the right precautions. Prevent further injury with strategies like:

• Modifying Your Swing: To avoid shoulder pain during golf, try reducing your follow-through or backswing. Limiting the motions you make during the game reduces your risk of damage.

• Using Longer Clubs: A shoulder injury or surgery can limit your range of motion. To compensate for the stiffness, try switching to a longer club that increases your reach.

• Resting When Needed: If your shoulder starts to hurt while you play golf, take a break — you need to allow your muscles to heal to prevent worse damage from occurring.

You can ask your shoulder specialist for more ideas tailored to your needs.

Shoulder Pain From Golf: When to Follow Through With a Doctor

In mild to moderate cases of shoulder pain, rest and at-home remedies can relieve the issue. However, you may need medical care if your pain persists after seven to 10 days. You should also seek help if you have severe pain, numbness or tingling. The shoulder professionals at OrthoBethesda can diagnose the problem and get you back on the green. We welcome you to schedule an appointment online or call us at 301-530-1010.

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