Golf is not a contact sport and requires a relatively low level of energy compared to other athletic activities. The injuries associated with golf, however, are just as serious as those linked to other sports. According to Dr. William J. Mallon of the Hughston Sports Medicine Foundation, more than 50 percent of touring golf professionals have had to stop playing due to an injury related to the game.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, which is a leading cause of pain on the bottom of the heel, is an inflammation of the sole of the foot caused when the plantar fascia, a tough layer of tissue that covers the foot muscles, is stretched and the arch flattens slightly in order to absorb the impact that occurs when your heel hits the ground. Often, plantar fasciitis can occur when the foot is over rotated or from weakness of the hip, which affects the rotation of your leg and foot. The pain from this condition can result in limited mobility and even interfere with your play. You can treat and correct this disorder by aggressively stretching your tendon and taking an anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is one of the most common causes of pain in the ball of the foot. It is characterized by a deep, dull or throbbing pain that occurs while sitting and standing. When you walk, the pain can be sharp. Matatarsalgia causes swelling and inflammation near the joint of your second toe. People with a second toe that is longer than the big toe develop this condition at a higher rate than others. Repetitive stress from playing golf, as well as fallen arches and doing other high impact activities, can contribute to the development of metatarsalgia.
Morton's Neuroma
Morton's neuroma, also referred to as intermetatarsal neuroma, is a painful condition that leads to foot and toe numbness or burning. It often affects the front of the foot. Morton's is caused when the tissues surrounding the nerve thicken or when the nerve linked to the toes swells. You can also develop this condition by wearing tight fitting shoes that constrict your toes as well as high-heeled shoes. People who have Morton's neuroma describe a sensation as if standing on a pebble. Golfers commonly experience this condition, particularly if they walk a lot or wear tight golf shoes with little room for the toes to flex. Signs of tendonitis include sensitivity above the heel bone, which is most noticeable in the morning, stiffness that eases after stretching, pain that worsens after activity, radiating discomfort during and after running and swelling.
Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon that connects the shin to the heel becomes inflamed or begins to degenerate. This condition is caused by wearing improper footwear, inflexible calf muscles and neglecting to stretch prior to the start of a golf match. You can prevent Achilles tendonitis by avoiding activities that stress your tendons, wearing adequately cushioned shoes with a firm arch support, replacing worn-out shoes and stretching and strengthening your calf muscles.
References
- American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine: Golf Injuries
- Dr Foot: Golf Injuries and the Feet
- Hughston Health Alert: Golf Injuries
- "Neale's Disorders of the Foot"; Donald Lorimer, et al; 2004
- MayoClinic.com; Plantar Fasciitis; May 24, 2009
- Northcoast Footcare, Inc.: Metatarsalgia, Ball of Foot Pain
