Shoulder Pain
What is a Shoulder Pain?
Shoulder pain can occur in golfers due to damage to the Rotator Cuff muscles. The Rotator Cuff muscles (Subscapularis, Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus and Teres Minor) are small muscles situated around the shoulder joint, which can become damaged during the repeated stresses of the golf swing, particularly if there is a swing fault such as 'Chicken Winging' (bent elbows at ball contact) or a 'C-Shaped Posture' (rounded lower back) that can put too much stress on the shoulders.
Rotator Cuff injuries usually begin as inflammation (Tendonitis) caused by small but repeated irritation. If the cause of the inflammation is not addressed, and continues over a long period of time, partial tears may develop in the cuff that could eventually become a tear all the way through one or more of the Rotator Cuff muscles.
What can you do to prevent Shoulder Pain?
Golfers have to ensure they maintain flexibility, strength and endurance of the shoulder muscles. Shoulder stabilisation exercises using Resistance Bands under the supervision of a Chartered Physiotherapist can also help prevent pressure on the Rotator Cuff tendons.
In addition, golf swing technique should be checked by a professional to ensure that the shoulder posture and co-ordination during golf doesn't overload the Rotator Cuff muscles.
What should you do if you suffer Shoulder Pain?
Physiotherapy treatment aims to reduce the amount of inflammation using Ice Therapy (never apply ice directly to the skin) and anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by a doctor. Anti Inflammatory Gel may be more appropriate where anti-inflammatory tablets are not well tolerated. For those who want to continue to play golf a Neoprene Shoulder Support can provide support and reassurance.
