While the game of golf is not frequently associated with injuries and stress on the body, numerous shoulder problems can arise from the repetitive motion of the golf swing. Understanding the tendencies that lead to these injuries can help you reduce the likelihood of falling victim to them and being forced to take time away from the game to heal.
Common Causes
The National Institutes of Heath website reports that overuse of the shoulders as well as poor technique are common causes of shoulder trouble for golfers. The lead shoulder tends to be particularly vulnerable and can suffer from torn rotator cuffs and acromioclavicular arthrosis -- that is, arthritis in the shoulder joint. Treatments for these ailments range from physical therapy and rest to surgery, depending on the severity of the problems.
Rotator Cuff
Certified strength and conditioning specialist Deborah Mullen identifies the shoulder as the most flexible and least stable joint in the body. The four muscles that provide the shoulder with stability are collectively known as the rotator cuff. The stress of the golf swing on the shoulder can cause rotator cuff problems ranging from inflammation of the cuff to bursitis and even tears of varying severity. The worst cases of rotator cuff tears frequently result in surgery.
Age and Repetition
Enrique Garrido, writing on the Sports Injury Bulletin website, points out that the cartilage separating the two articular surfaces of the acromioclavicular joint in the shoulder begins to deteriorate in the second decade of life. The compression of this joint that occurs during the golf back swing, therefore, creates greater problems with increased repetition of the movement along with advancing age. Rest, anti-pain medication and intra-articular steroid injections are common treatments to alleviate this ailment.
Prevention
To avoid these shoulder problems before they begin, Mullen recommends stretching rotator cuff muscles as well as exercising them frequently. Perform small arm circles -- 20 is a good number for a warm-up -- holding either small dumbbells or a can of soup in each hand. Garrido advocates shortening the back swing for golfers who suffer from arthritis or any other repetitive motion pain.
3 Rotator Cuff Stretches
Mullen describes a stretching exercise for each of the three sets of rotator cuff muscles. The back cuff stretch begins with placing your right hand on your left shoulder and left hand on right elbow. Gently pull back your right arm and then repeat the process on the left side. Underside cuff stretches involve placing your right hand behind your head and left hand on the right elbow. Gently push your right arm toward your back and then repeat on the left side. Hold your hands behind your back and slowly raise your arms while standing tall to stretch the front section of the cuff.
