Peachtree Orthopedics Golf Tips

(Photo by Chris Condon/PGA TOUR)

The TOUR Championship is proud to partner with Peachtree Orthopedics as the "Official Orthopedic Partner of the TOUR Championship" to help our fans develop a healthy golf regimen.

As a result, Peachtree Orthopedics has provided the following health tips:

1. Golf may seem like a low-risk sport. While very safe, golf injuries are responsible for more than 100,000 trips to seek medical attention every year in the U.S. The golf swing can be a complex maneuver, using all the extremities and many muscle groups. Injuries frequently occur at the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, as well as the back. One of the keys to injury prevention lies in pre-season preparation. It is very common to see the young pros on tour spending a lot of time with trainers, working on getting their bodies in shape for the demands of the tour - particularly in the offseason. There’s nothing that says that strategy should not be employed by the amateur. For example, core workouts that focus on the postural muscles of the back, or abdominal workouts can both help to stabilize the spine and prevent those troubling back injuries that can cut your season short. Putting in some time for pre-season fitness not only helps to prevent injury, but is always good for your overall health and likely improves your game.

2. One of the keys to prevention of golf injury is proper swing mechanics. There can be a tremendous amount of force generated by the golf swing, particularly by amateurs who instinctively feel that the harder one swings, the farther it will go. We know that swinging as hard as possible, particularly with bad mechanics, not only doesn’t equate to better or longer shots, it can lead to injuries. Often, when things aren’t going well with one’s swing, the temptation is to “muscle through it.” This is a recipe for injury, not to mention committing a mechanically-flawed swing to muscle memory. If things aren’t going well with the swing and you can’t seem to correct it, stop. Don’t get a second large bucket of balls; ask for help instead. Your local PGA professional is there to assist. It is very likely they can identify a problem in your swing very quickly that may not only prevent an injury, but improve your swing and make the game more enjoyable as well.

3. Golf is a strenuous game and puts lots of stress on our muscles, tendons, and joints. One of the most important elements to an injury-free round is appropriate flexibility. Before hitting the tee, take the time to warm up your body with adequate stretching. Focus on areas that work hardest during your swing, like legs, shoulders, and low back. If you have time to hit some range balls, gradually increase the length and force of your strokes to break your body in gradually. By getting your body prepared, not only will you perform at your peak, but you’ll be ready to do it again soon without a trip to the disabled list.

4. Atlantans are blessed with a nearly year-round golf season. While most rounds get played during the summer months, this is the time when weather conditions can be at their most dangerous. Pay attention to temperature, humidity, and sun exposure. Wear light breathable clothing, apply appropriate sunscreen, and consider a hat to cover your head and face. Make sure to stay hydrated, both during your round, and beforehand in preparation for the experience. Monitor yourself and your playing partners for symptoms of heat stroke, which includes headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, lack of sweating, nausea, and vomiting. Know that alcohol consumption will increase your risk of dehydration, and always seek medical care if any concerning symptoms arise.