Pain Free Golf Swing
- Wayne Ogrodnick
- Jan 12
- 2 min read
Golf is a sport that can put significant stress on your body due to the repetitive nature of the swings and the mechanics involved in the game. Understanding the causes of pain in golfers is essential for prevention and management. The most common areas for pain are in the elbows, wrists, shoulders, lower back, knees and ankles. Below are some common causes:
Improper Swing Mechanics:
Early extension (moving your butt towards the ball prior to impact) is extremely taxing on the back.
Poor grip, casting/scooping, the chicken wing on the follow through and flying elbow on the back swing can place undue stress on the elbow joint, shoulders, neck and wrists.
Posture: good mechanics, strength and mobility are key to good posture
Overuse Injuries
Repetitive motions in golf can lead to overuse injuries commonly affecting the tendons in the elbow, back, wrists and shoulders.
Previous Injuries
Individuals with a history of injuries may be more susceptible to pain and mobility issues during golfing that may require swing compensations to avoid pain. We work with you to find your most efficient pain free swing.
Lack of Strength and Flexibility
Poor posture and the potential of lower back pain is often the result of tight hip flexors and tight lower back paired with weak abdominals and weak glutes. This is called lower crossed syndrome and is often caused by sitting too much.
Shoulder issues are often the result of tight upper trapezius & levator scapula and tight pectoralis muscles paired with weak neck flexors and weak low/mid trapezius serratus anterior. This is called upper crossed syndrome and can be caused by sitting at a computer desk for too many years with poor posture.
Dynamic Warm-up
A dynamic warm-up is an essential to prepare the body for physical activity by increasing blood flow to the muscles, enhancing flexibility, and improving overall performance. Unlike static stretching, which involves holding stretches for a prolonged period, dynamic warm-ups incorporate movements that prepare the body for the golf swing. This warm-up not only helps to reduce the risk of injury but also optimizes muscle function and coordination.
Equipment Issues
Using clubs that are not properly fitted to your swing style, have incorrect grip size and firmness, too heavy of shaft and stiffness can exacerbate pain points.
At Golf 4 Life, we can help you address pain in your golf swing through better technique optimized for your limitations identified through the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Mobility Screen. Through TPI, you will get exercises that will help you deliver the club more efficiently as well as avoid pain. We will review your equipment and provide recommendations on what may help with your specific issue, and work with you on a dynamic warm-up routine to improve your performance on the course as well as mitigate potential pain points associated with the golf swing. All of this starts at out Initial Assessment session. Book your session today - swing changes take time but are so worth it!
Golf is 4 life! Lets enjoy it along the way!

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