3 Common Golf Injuries
With summer right around the corner, if you are a golfer– you are probably looking forward to hitting the fairways. And although golf is considered to be a low impact sport, chances are as the season progresses you could experience an injury or aches and pains that could keep you off the course. Overuse or poor technique can lead to wrist and elbow pain. Learn about 3 common golf injuries related to the wrist and elbow, the symptoms and treatment:
1. Wrist Tendinitis
2. Wrist Ligament Injuries
3. Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow
| Treating Golfer’s Elbow with the 3pp Elbow POP Splint– View Video |
1. Wrist Tendinitis
Tendon inflammation is the most common wrist/hand complaint among golfers. Typically occurring in your leading hand, wrist tendons can become overly fatigued and inflamed- causing pain and tenderness which can affect your ability to hold your club correctly. Symptoms can include pain, tenderness and stiffness in your wrist; tingling sensation or numbness and muscle weakness.
Rest, along with anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen can help your pain and swelling. Wrist splints that support but do not fully limit your motion can also help. The 3pp Wrist Wrap NP and the 3pp Wrist Pop Splint have adjustable compression to support your wrist and the non slip foam lining makes them comfortable to wear while playing golf.
For more severe tendinitis the Fix Comfort Wrist Brace offers excellent wrist control without bulky padding.
2. Wrist Ligament Injuries
The repeated movement of your wrist during short puts or the hyperextension of your wrist during your golf swing can cause tears on the ligaments in your wrist.
Symptoms can include pain and swelling at the base of the pinky side of the wrist; pain when you bend your wrist; clicking or grinding when you turn your wrist and loss of strength when you try to grip an object.
Applying ice and taking anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen can help with the pain and swelling. Resting your hand and wrist in a wrap or splint is important for healing and can help prevent further injury. The 3pp Carpal Lift provides support without restricting your wrist or forearm motion. TFCC ligament injuries can be prevented by pre-golf stretching and wrist rotation exercises.
3. Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow
Golfer’s Elbow describes the pain around the bony bump on the inside of your elbow. The pain can extend all the way to your wrist. It can be caused by repeated swinging of the club or locking your arm rather than keeping it straight and relaxed.
Symptoms include stiffness in your elbow, especially when you swing your club, make a fist, or try to grab something; pain all the way down your arm to the wrist and weak hands, especially when you shake hands.
Tennis Elbow describes a similar pain as Golfer’s Elbow but the pain occurs on the outside of your elbow near the bony bump and is tender to the touch.
Healing Golfer’s Elbow or Tennis Elbow can be a lengthy process. Applying ice, taking anti-inflammatory medication and using splints or wraps to relieve stress, reduce pain and allow the tendons to heal can all help. Wraps like the 3pp Elbow POP Splint can relieve pain and swelling without causing nerve problems. The 3pp Elbow Pop Splint won’t slip or roll, making it easy and comfortable to wear while playing golf.
To help prevent future golfing-related injuries, take time to stretch your arms, elbows and wrists before you play. Warming up with some easy practice swings before you begin a round of golf or start hitting at the driving range can also help. Stretching and strengthening the key muscles can help to increase your flexibility and endurance and ultimately help improve your game.
Like what you’ve read? Click here to subscribe to the blog!
Learn More About Relieving Your Wrist or Elbow Pain
Click on the images below
View Video
How to Relieve Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow with a 3pp Elbow POP Splint
Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments. We are always happy to answer questions about products mentioned in our blogs, however, we cannot provide a diagnosis or medical advice.
Written by:
Ginny Wolfe has been part of the OMA team for more than 10 years, creating educational content about arthritis, injuries, various health conditions and conservative treatment options. She works closely with hand therapists and orthopedic product specialists to develop clear, accurate resources that help readers better understand their conditions and the products that may help. The information on OMA is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Yes, the elbow and wrist are the most vulnerable. Prevention is most advisable, as it could take years for some injuries to heal completely. Massaging the elbow and wrist with some natural pain relief oil could help. Also, performing some light exercises on a regular basis is a good idea.