Golfing Injuries and How Sports Therapy Can Improve Both Recovery and Performance
Golf is often thought of as a low-impact sport, but anyone who plays regularly knows it places unique stresses on the body. Whether you’re playing 18 holes at the weekend, hitting the driving range after work, or competing in local tournaments, the repetitive nature of the golf swing and long periods spent walking can take their toll.
For many golfers, particularly those aged 40 and over, aches, pains, and recurring injuries can start to interfere with performance and enjoyment of the game. The good news is that sports therapy can not only help you overcome these setbacks but also play a major role in improving your overall golfing performance.
Common Golfing Injuries
Lower Back Pain
The golf swing is a powerful movement that relies heavily on rotation of the spine. Over time, this repetitive action can strain the lower back, particularly if core muscles are weak or if mobility is limited. Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints among golfers.
Golfers Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Repetitive gripping and swinging can irritate the tendons on the inside of the elbow, leading to pain and stiffness. This condition, often called “golfer’s elbow,” can make gripping the club uncomfortable and restrict play.
Shoulder Pain
The shoulder is heavily involved in the golf swing, from backswing to follow-through. Overuse, poor technique, or reduced flexibility can lead to issues such as rotator cuff strains, impingement, or bursitis.
Knee Problems
Walking the course and the twisting motion of the swing place extra stress on the knees. Players with existing arthritis, meniscus problems, or ligament issues may find symptoms worsening during or after a round.
Wrist and Hand Injuries
Sudden impact with the ground or repetitive swinging can cause strains in the wrists and hands, particularly in players with reduced grip strength.
How Sports Therapy Can Help Golfers Recover
Sports therapy is not just about treating injuries—it’s about identifying the underlying causes and putting a plan in place to prevent them from returning. Here’s how it can help:
Accurate Assessment – A sports therapist can pinpoint the root of the problem, whether it’s a weakness, mobility restriction, or movement imbalance.
Hands-On Treatment – Techniques such as massage, joint mobilisations, and soft tissue therapy can help relieve pain, reduce stiffness, and restore movement.
Rehabilitation Exercises – Tailored strength, flexibility, and control exercises build resilience in key areas like the back, shoulders, and hips, ensuring you can swing without pain.
Injury Prevention Advice – Small adjustments in warm-up routines, swing mechanics, or fitness habits can dramatically reduce your risk of future problems.
How Sports Therapy Can Improve Golfing Performance
Sports therapy isn’t only about fixing injuries—it’s also a valuable tool for performance enhancement, especially for golfers who want to maintain or improve their game as they get older.
Increased Mobility and Flexibility – Improved range of motion in the hips, shoulders, and spine allows for a smoother, more efficient swing.
Better Core and Stability Strength – A strong, stable core helps generate power while reducing strain on the back and joints.
Improved Endurance – Golf requires hours of concentration and movement. A tailored conditioning programme ensures you stay strong and consistent from the first tee to the last green.
Optimised Recovery – Sports therapy helps the body recover faster from both training and competition, meaning you can play more often with less risk of overuse injuries.
Confidence on the Course – Knowing your body is strong, balanced, and pain-free allows you to focus fully on your game rather than worrying about niggles.
Golf is a sport that can be enjoyed for a lifetime—but only if your body is looked after along the way. For players aged 40 and over, sports therapy can make a huge difference not only in overcoming common injuries but also in maximising performance and prolonging your golfing career.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, struggling with stiffness, or simply want to take a few strokes off your handicap, sports therapy offers practical, personalised solutions to help you play your best golf.