Golf is a great way to stay healthy. Played outside with friends and plenty of walking, core work and strategizing, golf helps keep people physically, mentally and socially active. To stay in the swing of things, Hoag’s Sports Medicine specialists advise golfers to take care of their bodies on and off the green.
“In many cases painful injuries such as medial epicondylitis, or golfer’s elbow, is caused by overuse,” Dr. Eugene Yim, Medical Director of Hoag Sports Medicine said. “If it’s been a while since you’ve played, you might want to ease into the activity to avoid straining yourself.”
Providing the highest level of care and attention to elite athletes in the NFL, NBA, MLB, MLS, U.S. Olympic teams, and numerous NCAA Division I schools, Hoag Sports Medicine specialists treat sports related injuries as well as orthopedic ailments. But the best treatment is prevention.
“The right preparation and conditioning can drastically reduce the risk of injury in any sport,” Dr. Yim said. “Taking care of yourself will allow you to maximize your time on the golf course.”
Dr. Yim advises weekend warriors and amateur golfers to:
Stay Active
Golf involves a lot of walking, swinging, and bending, so maintaining good physical fitness makes a difference. Regular exercise, including cardio, strength training and stretching, can help improve your game and prevent injuries. Don’t forget to stretch before and after playing. This can help prevent muscle strain and keep you in your game.
Eat Well
Healthy diets fuel focus, stamina and overall health. Make sure to stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains. There is also some evidence to suggest that golfers with a higher body mass index are at increased risk of developing lower back pain.
Do It Right
Using proper swing techniques won’t just improve your game, it will help you prevent injuries. Making sure you’re not flexing your wrist too much, for example, can help you to avoid golfer’s elbow. Meanwhile, swinging from your hips, rather than your arms, can protect you from neck strain. Once again, it is important to warm up before each round and to stretch after you play. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop playing and seek medical attention.
