When golf hurts: Musculoskeletal problems common to golfers

Abstract

Golfers most frequently report injuries to the low back, nondominant shoulder, and elbow. Injury patterns differ between elite and recreational golfers; professional and elite golfers tend to experience golf injury related to overuse while amateur golfers may experience injury related to adverse swing technique and overuse. Therapeutic interventions should include assessment and treatment of deficiencies in the kinetic chain and professional instruction to modify swing technique. Changes in the swing may include instruction in a more efficient technique or shortening the swing to decrease biomechanical forces affecting the injured area.