There’s nothing better than a sunny day on the green. In Illinois, the golf season is short! Injury prevention and pain management can help you stay ready to tee off. While enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels, golf requires a surprising amount of physical skill, from your ankles to your shoulders. 

Michael Lane, Doctor of Physical Therapy, is a Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) certified specialist at Professional Therapy Services, Inc. (PTS). He says the number one reason people stop playing golf is that they experience pain. Learn how to prevent injury and manage common ailments to make the most of this season.

Common Golf Injuries and Treatments

Low Back and Hip Pain

One common golf-related injury is low back and hip pain. Physical limitations in flexibility and core strength can contribute to problems with swing mechanics. The domino effect leads to overcompensation by other parts of the body — in this case, the lower back. 

Michael addresses back and hip pain by identifying underlying issues that result in restricted  body mechanics. Treatment includes customized stretching and strengthening programs tailored to maximize performance and minimize pain.

Shoulder Pain 

Another common complaint from golfers is shoulder pain. Straining the shoulder can occur when the rotator cuff is weak and lacks stability. Again, compensation by other parts of the upper body occurs while swinging causing pain and poor performance.

In cases of golf-related shoulder pain, the answer is generally strengthening. In order to use the correct muscles properly, they need to be strong enough to support the physical motions required. A TPI certified, physical therapist provides individualized exercises that can be completed anywhere. Each strengthening program is as unique as the player.

Golf Injury Prevention 

It is important to take the proper steps  to prevent injury. A dynamic warmup prepares your body for activity through motion. This step is critical to avoid muscle and joint strain. As part of your TPI program, Michael will provide personalized recommendations to get you ready to tackle 18 holes. 

How Professional Therapy Services, Inc. Can Help

Here at PTS, physical therapy treatment is always tailored to you. We offer free pain and injury screens to get you started on the right path. For golfers wanting to stay on the green and maximize their game, the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Performance Package will generate results.

The Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) is the world leader in golf fitness. We are certified to administer TPI’s Golf Swing Assessment–an 18-point screen designed to increase player performance through a deep understanding of how the body functions during a golf swing. TPI does not believe there is one way to swing a club, but that there is one efficient swing for every player.  

Let PTS help you find your swing! The TPI Golf Performance Package includes the certified swing assessment and four additional customized sessions to address physical limitations affecting your game. Call 309-231-0676 or click here for more information and to schedule an appointment.