Are you looking to up your golf game this season? If so, is pain holding you back? 

A golf swing may appear to be easy, but anyone who has picked up a golf club knows it is anything but straightforward. And it does no favors to your body either. Almost all golfers struggle with some pain during the golf season.

While back pain is the most common type of discomfort, golfers can also struggle with other injuries. In this blog, the health professionals at Versa Movement Collective will break down the best practices to help you stay pain-free during the golf season. 

Read on to learn more. 

Preparing for your game can drastically help minimize any pain you may feel during or after your session. There are several ways you can do this. 

First, it's essential to fuel the body. But don’t overdo it, because larger meals can have the opposite effect. Generally, a small, well-balanced meal a couple of hours before your game is ideal. 

Second, hydration is as important — if not more important — as food for the body. This is especially true if you begin playing early in the morning as this is a time when your body is typically dehydrated. So, be sure to drink plenty of fluids before you start playing. 

Third, it is always a good idea to warm up before your game. Even a leisurely walk and a series of stretches can get the job done. This will help prepare your body — and nervous system — and will help you avoid pain. Stretching is a staple of any good golf physiotherapy program.

Lastly, sports aids can be great tools to keep you pain-free. Luckily, a wide variety of sport aids are available — from specialized grips and braces to personalized golf shoes.

Please note, if you are recovering from an injury, consult a professional before returning to the golf course. While preparing can help, nothing replaces physiotherapy management for golfer elbow or other injuries. 

Fueling the body and staying hydrated during the game is also important. Always keep a water bottle or sports drink on hand — especially if the weather is hot and humid. Similarly, snacking on carbohydrate-rich foods such as bananas and energy bars can help sustain energy levels throughout the day.

Walking between holes is another excellent way to keep the blood flowing and muscles loose during your game. This prevents your muscles from spasming. Avoiding the unnecessary bumps and bruises from the cart ride is another added benefit.   

Not all pain needs golf physiotherapy to rehab. Sunburns are just as common as injuries. Therefore, sunscreen, ideally SPF 30 or higher, and a hat should be essential staples of your game-day kit.   

The truth is that no matter how careful you are, injuries happen. Think of them as an occupational hazard. But that does not mean there is nothing you can do about it. 

Icing an inflamed area for 15-20 minutes can help minimize pain and inflammation. Similarly, resting the affected area can also help.  Eating and hydrating after the game can also help restore nutritional balance to your muscles — and thus help you recover quicker. 

However, if your pain persists, consider consulting a physiotherapist for your back pain or joint trouble. 

The professionals at Versa Movement Collective are here to help you take your golf game to the next level while staying pain-free. Call 402-727-0802  or visit our website to book a one-to-one consultation with one of our experts today.