While golf may seem low-impact, it’s actually a physically demanding sport that requires balance, flexibility, coordination, and power. The golf swing is a highly complex, repetitive movement that can put strain on multiple areas of the body, especially if biomechanics or technique are off. This is probably the main reason that many golfers report it to be a frustrating, yet rewarding sport and can takes years to master, and needs frequent practice,
As a result, many golfers, from casual players to seasoned pros, suffer from overuse injuries that physiotherapy can treat effectively.
Most Common Golf Injuries
1. Lower Back Pain
Cause: Rotational strain from the golf swing, poor posture, weak core
Symptoms: Dull ache or sharp pain in the lower back, stiffness
Physiotherapy Treatment: Core stability exercises, spinal mobilization, posture correction, swing technique correction
2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Cause: Overuse of the forearm muscles during gripping and swinging
Symptoms: Pain on the inside of the elbow, weakness in grip
Physiotherapy Treatment: Soft tissue therapy, eccentric strengthening, ultrasound therapy, technique correction
3. Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Injuries
Cause: Repetitive overhead movements, poor scapular control
Symptoms: Shoulder pain, limited range of motion
Physiotherapy Treatment: Rotator cuff strengthening, posture retraining, manual therapy, assessing the kinetic chain to ensure other compensations are addressed
4. Wrist Strain or Tendonitis
Cause: Sudden impact (e.g., hitting the ground), poor grip technique
Symptoms: Pain in wrist with motion or pressure, reduced grip strength
Physiotherapy Treatment: Wrist mobility and strengthening, taping, correct technique, correcting biomechanics of the rest of the body to eliminate compensations
5. Knee Pain (Meniscus Irritation or Patellar Tendinopathy)
Cause: Twisting during the swing, walking uneven terrain, poor leg strength, poor core strength
Symptoms: Swelling, stiffness, pain when squatting or rotating
Physiotherapy Treatment: Strengthening, joint mobilization, functional movement re-education, core strengthening, assessing the rest of the kinetic chain to treat underlying compensations
How Physiotherapy Helps Golfers
Relieve Pain and Restore Mobility
Your physiotherapist will use hands-on techniques and targeted exercises to reduce pain and inflammation, restoring your range of motion.
Improve Swing Mechanics and Balance
Golf-focused rehab includes correcting faulty swing mechanics and muscle imbalances that often lead to injury.
Enhance Core Strength and Stability
A strong core is key to a powerful and safe golf swing. Your physio will guide you through golf-specific core strengthening routines.
Prevent Future Injuries
By addressing mobility restrictions, postural issues, and technique faults, physiotherapy reduces your risk of recurring injuries.
Performance Benefits: Physiotherapy for Golfers
Physiotherapy isn’t just for injury rehab, it’s also ideal for performance enhancement. With better mobility, strength, and neuromuscular control, you’ll enjoy:
- Longer drives
- Better swing control
- Improved endurance during long rounds
- Faster recovery between games
Golf Injury Prevention Tips
- Warm up before every round (light cardio and dynamic stretches)
- Strengthen your core, glutes, and shoulders
- Practice good posture, both on and off the course
- Check your swing mechanics with a coach or biomechanical assessment
- Use proper footwear and supportive insoles if needed
When Should a Golfer See a Physiotherapist?
Book an appointment if you experience:
- Pain during or after playing
- Restricted movement or stiffness
- Decreased swing speed or distance
- Repeated strains or muscle tightness
- Fatigue that lingers longer than usual
Early intervention = faster recovery + less time off the course.
At Pretto Physiotherapy, we specialize in helping golfers recover from injuries and optimize their physical performance. Our team uses evidence-based techniques to get you back on the course, stronger, more mobile, and pain-free.
Book your physiotherapy session today and take the first step toward a healthier, more powerful golf swing.
Golf Injuries FAQ
Q: Should I stop playing golf if I have back pain?
A: Not necessarily, but you should rest and consult a physiotherapist to assess the cause and create a safe return-to-play plan.
Q: How long does golfer’s elbow take to heal with physiotherapy?
A: Mild cases may improve within 4–6 weeks; more severe injuries may take longer with consistent rehab.
Q: Do you offer golf-specific movement assessments?
A: Yes! We assess swing mechanics, mobility, and muscle imbalances to create personalized plans for golfers.
Final Thoughts
Golf may be a low-impact sport, but it places unique demands on the body. If you’re struggling with pain or want to unlock your full potential, physiotherapy can help you move better, feel stronger, and play longer.
