Common Golf Injuries and How Physical Therapy Can Help

Golf may seem like a low-impact sport, but it places significant demands on the body. The repetitive nature of the swing, combined with the need for flexibility, rotation, and control, makes golfers surprisingly vulnerable to injury. Whether you’re a weekend player or a competitive golfer, the strain adds up—and without the right support, it can sideline your game.

At Back9 PT in Louisville, we specialize in golf physical therapy that goes beyond treating pain. Our goal is to help golfers stay strong, mobile, and pain-free through every round. With the guidance of a TPI-certified trainer, we take a performance-driven approach to keep you swinging at your best.

READ: The Ultimate Guide to Golf Injury Prevention with a TPI-Certified Physical Therapist

The Most Common Injuries in Golfers

While golf may lack the collisions of contact sports, it’s notorious for causing repetitive stress injuries—especially in players who practice or play frequently. Some of the most common golf-related injuries include:

• Low Back Pain: The twisting forces of the golf swing place constant strain on the lumbar spine, often leading to chronic discomfort or acute flare-ups.

• Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Overuse of the forearm muscles during gripping and swinging can cause inflammation and pain along the inside of the elbow.

• Shoulder Strain: Limited mobility or strength imbalances can lead to rotator cuff injuries, especially during the backswing or follow-through and for those with an upper body dominant swing.

• Wrist Injuries: Sudden impact with the ground or overuse can stress the small muscles and tendons in the wrist, reducing grip control and swing consistency. This can be especially prevalent when hitting off of mats.

Each of these injuries can not only hurt your game but also make daily tasks uncomfortable. Left unaddressed, they can become chronic conditions that limit your long-term ability to play.

What Causes These Injuries? It’s Not Just the Swing

While the golf swing is a major contributor to injury, it’s rarely the only factor at play. Most golf-related injuries stem from a combination of poor biomechanics, restricted mobility, and muscular imbalances—often made worse by improper warm-ups or overuse.

For example, limited hip or thoracic spine mobility can force the lower back to overcompensate during the swing, increasing the risk of pain and injury. Weak core stability can also reduce control during rotation, putting excessive strain on the shoulders and elbows.

READ: 🏌️‍♂️ Desert Golf Adventure: Exploring St. George, Utah's Premier Courses

Even the best swing mechanics can break down if the body isn’t physically prepared to handle the movement. That’s why identifying the underlying causes—not just the symptoms—is essential for long-term performance and injury prevention.

At Back9 PT, our team focuses on understanding these root causes so we can create a plan that restores balance, improves mechanics, and protects your ability to play.

How Golf-Specific Physical Therapy Can Make the Difference

Generic rehab plans may help with short-term pain relief, but they often miss the mark for golfers who want to return to play with full strength, mobility, and control. That’s where golf-specific physical therapy comes in—targeting not just recovery, but performance enhancement.

At Back9 PT, our TPI-certified approach starts with a movement assessment that evaluates how your body functions during your swing. We identify limitations in mobility, strength, or coordination that may be contributing to pain or inconsistency.

From there, we build a personalized treatment plan that may include:

• Mobility work to restore rotational range

• Strength training to improve one's stability and power

• Neuromuscular re-education for smoother, more efficient movement

• Hands-on therapy to reduce tension and promote tissue recovery

This type of therapy isn’t just for injured golfers—it’s for anyone who wants to swing more powerfully, reduce fatigue, and protect their body through every round.

The Back9 PT Approach: Tailored Care for Every Golfer

At Back9 PT, we know that no two golfers move the same. That’s why our approach begins with understanding you—your swing mechanics, your injury history, and your performance goals. Whether you're rehabbing a nagging elbow or simply want to add distance to your drive, our team designs a plan that fits your game.

READ: From Data to Drills: How Force Plate Analysis Powers Customized Golf Performance Exercises!

As a TPI-certified practice, we use industry-leading tools and assessments to pinpoint the exact limitations affecting your swing. Then, we create a one-on-one treatment strategy that blends manual therapy, functional training, and mobility work—all designed to support how your body performs on the course.

We also emphasize education, giving you the tools and techniques to keep progressing outside the clinic. From warm-up drills to pre-round mobility routines, we empower golfers to take control of their performance and longevity.

Play Longer, Swing Stronger—Without the Pain

Golf should be a lifelong sport—but only if your body can keep up. Whether you're recovering from an injury or looking to gain an edge in your game, golf-specific physical therapy can help you play smarter, feel better, and perform at your peak.

At Back9 PT in Louisville, we’re not just treating symptoms—we’re building stronger, more resilient golfers. With our TPI-certified training and personalized care plans, you can reduce pain, improve mobility, and gain the control and power you need for a more consistent swing.

READ: From Data to Drills: How Force Plate Analysis Powers Customized Golf Performance Exercises!

Ready to invest in your game and your body? Schedule a golf movement assessment today and take the first step toward playing pain-free, high-performance golf—round after round.