Shoulder Pain and Golf

The rotator cuff and shoulder can be over-stressed a great deal playing golf when certain parts of the body are not moving as they should.

During the golf swing, it is very important that the thorso be able to rotate as much as possible. If it is limited, the shoulder joint may go through an abnormal range, creating stress on the rotator cuff.

The same is true when the scapula cannot move because of tightness in the muscles of the upper back. During a right-handed backswing, the left scapula should naturally glide to the left (called protraction). Without this, the back of the left rotator cuff may over stretch, causing strain and micro-tearing.

Here are two stretches that should help during a golf warm-up:

(PICTURES FORTHCOMING IN THE NEXT WEEK)

Seated Torso Stretch

Upper Back Stretch

DISCLAIMER:
The information presented on DaiseyPT.com is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or physical therapy advice. You should not use the information on this web site for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.

The exercises presented in these articles pose risks if performed incorrectly or if performed by persons who may be inappropriate for them. They are provided for informational purposes only and to provide education and insight into a particular interest. Daisey Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Inc. does not recommend performing them without a complete history and examination as well as professional instruction. Daisey Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine assumes no liability for any injury that may occur by attempting the exercises presented here.