Playing golf requires the use of your hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders in complex and coordinated motions. No matter your skill level, a game of golf can still result in injuries. In fact, injuries to the hands, wrists, and elbows are common among golfers. Poor form, poor technique, and overuse are common causes of golf injuries, which can affect both bones and soft tissues. For golf pros, an injury can really hurt your golf game. Let’s talk about the most common golf injuries that can negatively affect your game and result in serious symptoms.
Sprains
A common way to sprain your wrist while playing golf is when you accidentally hit a rock during your swing. Poor technique can also cause strain on your wrist. A wrist sprain can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and weakness in the hand, which can affect your game.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is also common in golfers. You may feel a tingling in your hands, wrists, and elbows after a game. If it persists, you could have an overuse injury. Bending and extending the wrist can cause pain, which can worsen when you try to play golf.
Golfer’s Elbow
Also called medial epicondylitis, golfer’s elbow is a type of injury that causes pain in the forearm and wrist. The tendons of your forearm become inflamed due to repetitive motions and excessive wrist and finger motions. Lack of warm-ups or poor conditioning can also cause golfer’s elbow.
Fractures
A hamate bone fracture may develop when the golf club strikes the ground hard, which results in its handle hitting the hamate bone — one of the small bones in the wrist. The bone could break and cause hand pain. Pain from a hamate bone fracture usually occurs in the heel of the little finger on the side of the palm. It may also cause numbness and tingling in the little fingers.
Damaged Blood Vessels
Hypothenar hammer syndrome may develop after a repeated striking of the hand from hitting the ball, which can weaken the blood vessel walls. The vessel walls may swell and clot and cause pain in the palm region of the hand.
A proper diagnosis and early treatment of a golf injury allows you to return to the game sooner and enjoy golf more. Poor form or technique could lead to injuries that may be avoided with correction. If you love playing golf, seek out a highly qualified surgeon that specializes in hand and upper extremity care.
Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Surgeon in Delray Beach, Boynton Beach & Boca Raton, FL
Dr. Steve Meadows of South Palm Orthopedics is an orthopedic surgeon that specializes in hand and upper extremity conditions. He can treat hand and wrist as well as elbow and shoulder injuries. Dr. Meadows provides diagnoses, treatments, and preventive care services to his patients. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Meadows, call 561-496-6622 or use our convenient appointment request form. Our friendly staff looks forward to your visit!
