While golf may seem like a low-impact, leisurely sport on the surface, seasoned players know the physical toll it can take. The combination of repetitive motions, high torque, and extended time on the course makes golfers vulnerable to a wide range of musculoskeletal issues. Whether you’re a weekend enthusiast or a competitive player, understanding the most common golf injuries can help you stay healthy, improve performance, and enjoy the game longer.
To help, we’re exploring some of the most frequent golf injuries, including prevention strategies and guidance on when it’s time to consult a specialist in sports medicine.
Understanding the Injury Risks of Golf
Golf injuries usually develop over time rather than from a single traumatic event. The repetitive nature of the golf swing, combined with poor mechanics, inadequate warm-up, or overuse, often leads to strain on muscles, tendons, and joints.
Many golfers push through pain, dismissing it as part of the game. But unaddressed discomfort can lead to chronic conditions or more serious damage. It’s important to recognize early signs of injury and respond proactively.
The most common golf injuries tend to affect areas involved in the swing and follow-through, particularly the back, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and knees. Walking long distances, carrying heavy golf bags, and swinging with improper form all contribute to the risk.
15 Common Golf Injuries and Their Causes
Golfers often underestimate the strain the game places on their bodies, especially when movements are repeated over time without proper form or conditioning. Here are some of the most common golf injuries, along with the specific factors that typically cause them.
1. Low Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common golf injuries and often results from the repeated rotational motion required during the golf swing. The twisting forces placed on the lumbar spine can lead to muscle strain, ligament sprains, or even herniated discs over time. Inadequate core strength, limited hip mobility, and poor swing mechanics increase the risk, especially if a golfer plays frequently without adequate warm-up or recovery. Walking the course with poor posture or carrying a heavy golf bag can further aggravate the condition.
2. Golfer’s Elbow
Also known as medial epicondylitis, golfer’s elbow is caused by inflammation of the tendons that attach to the inner part of the elbow. It results from repetitive stress during the downswing and follow-through, particularly from gripping the club too tightly or overusing the dominant arm. The pain may radiate down the forearm and worsen with continued activity, especially when hitting balls on hard ground or using improper technique.
3. Tennis Elbow
Although it primarily affects tennis players, lateral epicondylitis — also known as tennis elbow — is one of the more common golf injuries, particularly among amateur players. It involves inflammation on the outside of the elbow due to repetitive extension and rotation of the forearm. This condition often develops in golfers who have a fast or abrupt swing and can be exacerbated by overswinging or using a club that is too heavy or unbalanced.
4. Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff consists of four muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint during motion. In golf, the repetitive overhead and rotational movements can lead to tendonitis, tears, or chronic irritation. Poor shoulder mechanics, a lack of flexibility, and improper swing technique increase vulnerability. Players may notice weakness, pain with lifting the arm, or limited range of motion, particularly during the backswing or follow-through.
5. Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
This condition occurs when the space between the shoulder blade and rotator cuff narrows, leading to compression of the tendons or bursae. The result is pain during lifting or overhead movement, especially while raising the arm to begin the backswing. Shoulder impingement can develop gradually and is often mistaken for general fatigue or strain, but without rest or treatment, it may evolve into a more serious rotator cuff injury.
6. Knee Pain or Meniscus Tears
Although the knees aren’t directly involved in the swing, they play a key role in stability and power transfer. Sudden rotation during the downswing or while walking across uneven ground can strain the knee joint, leading to ligament sprains or tears in the meniscus, the cartilage that cushions the knee. Golfers with arthritis or previous knee injuries are particularly susceptible. Persistent pain, swelling, or clicking in the knee should not be ignored.
7. Wrist Tendonitis
The wrists absorb much of the force generated during a golf swing, especially when making contact with the ball or the ground, making wrist injuries very common among golfers. Tendonitis develops when the tendons become irritated due to overuse, poor grip technique, or repetitive strain. Pain is often felt on the top or underside of the wrist and can worsen during swings, especially after hitting out of sand traps or thick rough.
8. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
This condition affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain and swelling near the base of the thumb. It is one of the more specific and common golf injuries seen in players who frequently grip the club too tightly or use excessive force during the swing. It can make it difficult to hold the club or perform everyday tasks, such as turning a doorknob or lifting objects.
9. Neck Strain
Limited mobility in the spine or shoulders can cause golfers to overuse their neck muscles during the swing. This can lead to strain or stiffness, especially after long rounds or multiple practice sessions. Poor posture, such as slouching during setup or failing to keep the head aligned with the spine, also contributes to neck discomfort. In more severe cases, nerve compression may occur, leading to radiating pain or numbness.
10. Ankle Sprains
Though less common than upper-body injuries, ankle sprains can result from uneven terrain, quick pivoting during a swing, or missteps on the course. This type of injury involves stretching or tearing of the ligaments that stabilize the ankle. Wearing unsupportive shoes or lacking proper balance can increase the risk, and a severe sprain may lead to swelling, bruising, or instability while walking.
11. Hip Labral Tears
The hip joint endures considerable rotational stress during the golf swing. Over time, this can lead to a tear in the labrum, the cartilage that lines and supports the hip socket. Symptoms may include clicking, locking, or a deep ache in the hip or groin area. Players with poor hip mobility or those who swing with excessive torque are more prone to this injury, and recovery often requires physical therapy or surgical intervention to return to golfing.
12. Plantar Fasciitis
This condition causes inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. Long hours of walking on the course, especially in unsupportive footwear, put excessive strain on the arch and heel. The pain is typically most severe during the first steps of the morning or after sitting for extended periods of time. It can become chronic if left unaddressed, which can limit both walking and swinging performance.
13. Trigger Finger
Trigger finger occurs when a finger becomes stuck in a bent position and then snaps straight. It results from inflammation and narrowing of the tendon sheath in the affected finger. Golfers who grip the club tightly for long periods are at increased risk, especially if they play frequently or use improper grip techniques. The condition can cause pain, stiffness, or a noticeable popping sensation when bending or straightening the finger.
14. Rib Strains or Intercostal Muscle Injuries
Swinging with high intensity or poor rotational mechanics can strain the muscles between the ribs, known as the intercostal muscles. These injuries are uncommon but can cause sharp pain during twisting, deep breathing, or even coughing. Because symptoms can mimic more serious issues, such as heart or lung problems, it’s important to get evaluated if chest or rib pain occurs after playing.
15. Sunburn and Heat-Related Illnesses
Though not typically considered musculoskeletal, sunburn and heat exhaustion are among the most common golf-related health concerns, especially during warm weather. Prolonged exposure without proper hydration or sun protection can lead to fatigue, dizziness, or heat stroke. Golfers should prioritize hydration, wear moisture-wicking clothing, and apply sunscreen to avoid these easily preventable but potentially serious conditions.
Preventing Common Golf Injuries
While no sport is entirely risk-free, many common golf injuries can be avoided with proactive steps:
- Warm up thoroughly: Take 10 to 15 minutes to stretch the shoulders, back, hips, and legs before teeing off. Gentle practice swings and mobility exercises prepare the body for movement.
- Strengthen core and stabilizer muscles: A strong core protects the lower back and improves swing mechanics. Incorporate exercises like planks, bridges, and rotational movements into your fitness routine.
- Work on flexibility: Regular stretching of the hips, hamstrings, shoulders, and spine improves your range of motion and helps prevent strain.
- Focus on proper swing mechanics: Lessons from a golf pro can refine your swing and reduce compensatory movements that lead to injury.
- Use the right equipment: Clubs that are too long, too short, or too heavy can force awkward posture and increase the risk of strain. Get professionally fitted if possible.
- Listen to your body: If you feel persistent discomfort or soreness, take time off and seek guidance. Playing through pain often makes things worse.
- Don’t overplay: Balance time on the course with rest days, especially if you’re increasing your frequency of play.
- Wear supportive footwear: Choose golf shoes with adequate arch support and traction to reduce the risk of foot, knee, and ankle injuries.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Some aches and pains resolve on their own with rest, ice, and over-the-counter medication. However, specific symptoms suggest a more serious issue that requires expert medical attention. You should consult an orthopedic specialist if:
- Pain persists for more than a week without improvement
- You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
- Swelling, bruising, or joint instability develops after a swing or movement
- You notice clicking, locking, or restricted motion in a joint
- Pain interferes with your ability to swing, walk, or complete daily activities
Orthopedic physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions involving bones, joints, muscles, and tendons. They can offer imaging, physical therapy, pain management injections, or surgical options if necessary. Most importantly, they help you return to golf safely and confidently.
Staying Healthy to Play the Game You Love
Golf is a rewarding sport that promotes fitness, focus, and social connection. Yet it also presents unique physical demands. Knowing the most common golf injuries, their causes, and how to prevent them is key to enjoying the game without interruption.
Whether you’re dealing with nagging elbow pain or recovering from a shoulder injury, paying attention to early warning signs can save you from longer setbacks. Staying proactive with warm-ups, strength training, and regular orthopedic checkups will keep your body as sharp as your swing.
If you suspect you’re dealing with one of the common golf injuries discussed here, don’t hesitate to consult one of our expert orthopedic specialists. A personalized treatment plan can help you heal properly and return to the course with confidence.
At The Orthopedic Clinic, we’re committed to putting patients first. Our dedicated and caring team takes the time to understand not only your injury but also your lifestyle and long-term health goals. By getting to know you, we can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury or exploring your recovery options, our experienced doctors and surgeons are ready to support you every step of the way, helping you get back to doing what you love.
Contact us today to discover how we can support your recovery journey.