Take the Pain out of your Golf Game

DOWNERS GROVE – The most common golf injuries occur in the lower back, elbows, shoulders, hands and wrists. According to Dr. Timothy Payne, an orthopedic surgeon on staff at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital, the majority of these injuries can be prevented.  

“Impact and stress of the repetitive motion of the swing is hard on the muscles and joints,” Dr. Payne said. “A great way to prevent golf injury is to fit in basic stretching and a brief warm up before hitting the course.”

The early warning signs of an injury should not be ignored:

• Joint pain
• Tenderness at a specific point on your body
• Swelling
• Weakness
• Numbness and/or tingling

Payne advises his patients to be aware of the surroundings, properly fitted equipment and adequate hydration on the course.

“Drinking plenty of fluids can prevent dehydration during the hot summer days on the green,” Payne said.

As a former college athlete and a passionate golfer, Payne also recommends that avid golfers work on their core muscles in the off season.

“Flexibility will not improve just by playing golf, but through an ongoing training program all year round,” Payne said.

Whether you play golf for leisure, sport or competition, don’t let an injury prevent you from hitting the links and enjoying the game.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with a physician on staff at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital call 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622) or visit www.advocatehealth.com/gsam.