Golf Specific Rehab: How to Get Back on the Course After an Injury
Updated: Dec 18, 2023
Golf is a sport that requires a lot of skill and technique, as well as physical fitness. Unfortunately, injuries can occur that can keep you off the course for an extended period of time. But don't worry – there is hope. With the right approach to rehab, you can get back on the course and continue to enjoy the game you love.
Here are some tips for golf-specific rehab:
1. Get a Diagnosis
Before starting any rehab program, it's important to get a proper diagnosis from a medical professional. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need to see a doctor, physical therapist, or chiropractor. They can help you understand the extent of the injury and provide guidance on the best course of treatment.
2. Set Goals
Once you have a diagnosis, it's important to set realistic goals for your rehab. You may not be able to get back on the course right away, but setting achievable milestones can help keep you motivated. Work with your medical professional to develop a plan that takes into account your specific injury and goals.
3. Start Slow
When you're ready to begin rehab, start slow. Don't push yourself too hard, too fast. Listen to your medical provider about your prognosis and timelines for tissue healing. Together, gradually build up your strength and flexibility with exercises that target the specific areas affected by your injury. Be patient with yourself and don't try to do too much too soon.
4. Golf Specific Analysis
Myth Buster: There is no such thing as a perfect swing. We are different shapes and sizes and have anatomical variances which affect our swing characteristics. There are, however, a handful of common faults that we should avoid to optimize our individual swing patterns to decrease pain and improve performance—finding a medical provider certified in golf rehab is vital to expediting your time off the course and ensuring future success. This can help prevent future injury and identify some problem areas that may have been correlated with your original injury.
5. Incorporate Golf-Specific Exercises
As you progress through your rehab and even after discharge, it's essential to incorporate golf-specific exercises into your routine. This should ALWAYS include exercises and drills that focus on your INDIVIDUAL ideal swing mechanics as discussed above, areas of weakness, decreased flexibility, stability/balance training, and practices that simulate your movements during a round of golf. Fitness professionals can also receive golf-specialty certifications, which can help you identify someone who fits your needs.
6. Get Back on the Course
Finally, when you're ready, it's time to get back on the course. Take it slow and ease into your round. Focus on your technique, and don't push yourself too hard. We at FHPT like to have patients' symptoms under 4/10 on a pain scale; anything more, and we halt for the day. Listen to your body as you continue to play, and be mindful of any pain or discomfort. It's vital to continue your rehab program even after you return to the course to prevent further injuries. It also helps to document how many strokes you take daily (driving range or during your round) to gradually progress that number towards your warmup + original handicap swing count.
In conclusion, golf-specific rehab is a process that requires patience, dedication, and hard work. But with the right approach, you can get back on the course and continue to enjoy the game you love. Remember to work with a golf-certified medical professional, set realistic goals, start slow, focus on finding the ideal swing for your body type and avoiding common faulty movements, incorporate golf-specific exercises, and be mindful of your body as you progress through your rehab program. Good luck and happy golfing!
