This summer, golfers in Hampton Roads have come out to area courses to celebrate National Golf Month. For people dealing with regular joint pain, golf is a low-impact ideal for helping with stiffness. When properly played, the game is easy on the joints, and extensive walking from hole to hole aids in flexibility and joint lubrication.
August is National Golf Month, and a great time to take advantage of the lush greens and challenging courses in the region. How you approach the game impacts your joints, so it is important to take safety into consideration before you reserve your tee time:
- If you are completely new to the game, consider taking a few lessons before you spend money on clubs and course fees. Learn the basics of a good stance so you can play without pain.
- Like with any other exercise, take time to stretch your muscles before you play. Golf may be low-impact, but you will use your whole body during the game so make sure you are limber.
- When possible, walk as much of the course as you can. Walking is great exercise for relieving joint stiffness. The movement keeps your joints lubricated and your muscles will tone up.
- Drink plenty of water when you play. August weather can reach triple digits, and even on days when it doesn’t feel hot you will expend energy.
- Maintain a balanced stance when you prepare to hit your ball. Keep your legs loose and avoid standing stiffly because your body needs to move completely through the swing.
- Relax your grip on your club. A tight grip may affect your swing and slice your ball into the woods.
- Listen to your body. Walk and play at your own pace. Consider supplemental exercises to keep in shape in between games.
Should pain become an obstacle to enjoying golf or any outdoor activity, the physicians and therapists at Bon Secours Virginia Orthopaedic & Spine Specialists are here to help. We offer a full continuum of care for athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to improve their quality of life through effective joint pain management. Contact us today for more information.