From The Doctor’s Desk

As the snow begins to melt and Colorado’s fairways turn green again, golfers across the state eagerly anticipate their first round of the season. However, golf injury prevention should be top of mind before stepping back onto the course. After months of reduced activity — or winter sports that engage different muscle groups — returning to golf too quickly can place unexpected stress on the body. Preparing early is one of the most effective ways to enhance performance, reduce injury risk, and ensure you enjoy every moment of the season.

Golf may appear low-impact, yet the repetitive, rotational nature of the swing demands significant coordination between the shoulders, spine, hips, and knees. Without proper conditioning, even experienced golfers can find themselves sidelined just as the season begins.

Why Early Preparation Matters

Many golf injuries occur not because of a single bad swing, but because the body is unprepared for the sudden increase in movement. Muscles may be tight, stabilizing joints may be weaker than expected, and mobility often decreases during the colder months.

• Taking time to prepare your body before the season starts can help you:
• Generate more controlled power in your swing
• Improve balance and rotational mobility
• Reduce strain on vulnerable joints
• Prevent overuse injuries
• Play longer rounds with less fatigue

Think of it this way — you wouldn’t start the season with damaged clubs or worn grips. Your body deserves the same level of attention.

The Most Common Early-Season Golf Injuries

Understanding where injuries tend to occur can help you recognize warning signs before they progress.

Shoulder Strain and Rotator Cuff Irritation
The shoulder plays a critical role in controlling the club throughout the swing. Weakness or limited mobility can quickly lead to inflammation or small tears.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Repetitive gripping and swinging can irritate the tendons along the inner elbow, causing pain that often worsens without rest or treatment.

Low Back Pain
Your spine absorbs significant rotational force during each swing. If hip mobility is limited, the lower back often compensates — increasing the risk of strain.

Hip Tightness
Power begins in the hips. When they lack flexibility, additional stress shifts to the knees and back, disrupting both mechanics and comfort.

Mobility First, Strength Second

One of the biggest misconceptions in golf conditioning is that strength alone prevents injury. In reality, mobility is equally — if not more — important.

Focus on:

• Gentle rotational stretches for the spine
• Hip openers to improve swing mechanics
• Shoulder mobility exercises
• Dynamic warmups before every round

Even five to ten minutes of intentional movement before tee time can significantly reduce injury risk.

Don’t Skip the Warmup

Walking straight from the parking lot to the first tee is one of the fastest ways to strain a muscle.

Instead, try this simple pre-round routine:

• Take a brisk 5-minute walk
• Perform controlled torso rotations
• Stretch your hamstrings and hips
• Make several half-speed practice swings

This increases blood flow, activates stabilizing muscles, and prepares your body for the demands ahead.

Listen to Early Signs of Pain

A little soreness after the first few rounds can be normal. Sharp pain, persistent stiffness, or discomfort that alters your swing is not.

Ignoring these signals often leads to longer recovery times and potentially more serious injury. Early evaluation allows specialists to identify minor issues before they interfere with your season.

Play the Long Game

Golf is a sport many people enjoy for decades — and protecting your joints now plays a major role in maintaining that longevity. Conditioning, proper mechanics, and proactive care can help you stay competitive, mobile, and confident on the course year after year.

Whether your goal is to increase driving distance, walk 18 holes comfortably, or simply enjoy pain-free play, preparing your body is one of the smartest investments you can make this season.

Schedule an Evaluation Before Pain Sidelines Your Season

If you are already experiencing discomfort, don’t wait for it to worsen. Early care can prevent minor issues from becoming season-ending injuries.

Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists today to receive a personalized evaluation and treatment plan — so you can step onto the first tee feeling strong, prepared, and ready to play your best.