Good Form For Par

How to prevent injury during your next round of golf

Whether you are hitting the course for Father’s Day or an upcoming summer outing, you might consider golf to be a low-impact sport, but a good game can put big demands on your body. Golf requires a lot of physical coordination—which can easily lead to injuries.

From back pain and injury to golfer’s elbow and shoulder pain—sports health expert Dr. Justen Elbayar from NYU Langone Health has some quick tips on how to avoid injuries while out on the green.

Use a golf cart or bag roller

The avid golfer often loves to walk the course and just carry the golf bag on his or her back. That extra weight only increases the risk of a back injury. Get help carrying that heavy load with a bag cart or a golf cart.

Stay hydrated

When summer temps go up, so does the humidity and the risk of dehydration. This can lead to muscle cramping and back pain. Drink plenty of fluids including water and sports drinks.

Good form

It is important to have good form not only to deliver an effective swing, but to also prevent back injuries. Have a friend video your swing so you can see if your form is good. New players often do not have the proper training needed to perfect their swing and prevent injury. Dr. Elbayar emphasizes the need for participants to learn proper form, especially for those with pre-existing conditions like osteoarthritis or other joint-related injuries.

Have fun

Stress can lead to tense muscles and the risk of spraining your back. Enjoy being outdoors and amongst friends.

Dr. Elbayar specializes in sports orthopedic surgery and in shoulder and elbow surgery for NYU Langone Health.