Physiotherapy for Golfers: Improve Your Swing and Prevent Common Injuries
Golf is a game of precision, technique, and repetitive motion. While it may seem low-impact, golf puts significant stress on your body, especially your back, shoulders, wrists, and hips. Whether you are a weekend golfer or a regular player, physiotherapy can help you enhance your swing, boost performance, and avoid injuries that might keep you off the course.
At In Touch Physio, we specialise in treating golfers of all levels. Here’s how physiotherapy can support your game and keep you swinging strong.
Common Injuries Among Golfers
Golfers often experience specific injuries related to the repeated motions and physical demands of the sport. Some common issues include:
Lower back pain: Due to the twisting motion during the swing
Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis): Pain on the inside of the elbow from gripping and swinging
Shoulder injuries: Overuse or poor technique can cause rotator cuff strains
Wrist and hand pain: Repetitive impact and grip pressure may lead to tendonitis or sprains
Hip and knee pain: Resulting from weight shifting and rotation during the swing
Ignoring these issues can lead to chronic pain and reduced performance.
How Physiotherapy Helps Golfers
Physiotherapy targets the root causes of pain and movement limitations, focusing on injury prevention and performance enhancement. Here are some ways it can benefit golfers:
1. Swing Analysis and Movement Assessment
Our physiotherapists analyse your swing mechanics and assess your posture, flexibility, and muscle strength. Identifying imbalances or movement restrictions allows us to create a personalised plan to improve your technique and reduce injury risk.
2. Improving Flexibility and Mobility
Golf requires a great deal of rotational movement. Tight muscles in your hips, back, and shoulders can limit your range of motion. Physiotherapy uses targeted stretching and mobilisation techniques to enhance flexibility, allowing for a smoother and more powerful swing.
3. Strengthening Key Muscle Groups
Strong core, glutes, and stabilising muscles are essential for a consistent golf swing and injury prevention. Your physiotherapist will guide you through exercises that improve muscle endurance, balance, and control.
4. Pain Management and Rehabilitation
If you’re already experiencing pain or injury, physiotherapy provides hands-on treatment such as manual therapy, soft tissue massage, and taping to reduce inflammation and speed up healing. Rehabilitation exercises help restore function and prevent future problems.
Exercises Every Golfer Should Try
While a tailored physiotherapy program is ideal, here are some beginner-friendly exercises to support your game:
Rotational stretches: Improve spinal mobility and swing rotation
Hip bridges: Strengthen glutes for better stability and power
Planks: Build core strength to support your back during the swing
Wrist stretches: Maintain flexibility and reduce strain on your wrists
Shoulder blade squeezes: Enhance posture and shoulder stability
Tips to Prevent Golf Injuries
Warm up with dynamic stretches before every round
Avoid over-swinging and use proper technique
Take lessons to improve your swing mechanics
Stay hydrated and take breaks during long sessions
Listen to your body and seek physiotherapy at the first sign of pain
Ready to Improve Your Game?
At In Touch Physio, we understand the unique demands golf places on your body. Our expert physiotherapists will help you move better, swing stronger, and stay injury-free, so you can enjoy the game longer.
Book your assessment today and let us help you take your golf performance to the next level.
