why does my left shoulder hurt from golf

When golfers keep the left arm tight to the chest as they swing back, they can tear the labrum that stabilizes the shoulder joint. This is called a posterior labral tear, and the golfer feels pain in the back of the shoulder.

Full Answer

What causes shoulder pain from playing golf?

In regards to shoulder injuries, the lead shoulder, or the left shoulder in the right-handed golfer, is particularly vulnerable to injury. Common shoulder problems affecting golfers include rotator cuff tears, long head of the biceps tendon injuries, shoulder impingement, osteoarthritis, and …

What could cause sudden pain in left shoulder?

Jun 25, 2019 · Here are the 6 most common shoulder injuries in golf: Rotator Cuff Tear; Rotator Cuff Tendonitis; Shoulder Impingement; Glenoid Labral Tear; Osteoarthritis; Shoulder Instability; This article will go into each of the most common shoulder injuries in golf, but let’s first go over the reason shoulder pain develops at all in golfers….

How to fix shoulder pain fast?

Sep 07, 2020 · Once you experience shoulder discomfort, use common sense. Rest and ice and, if needed, an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory should reduce the swelling; combined with strengthening exercises, you ...

What to blame for shoulder pain?

Aug 06, 2009 · I've had a total shoulder 4,yeatsz ago by a good shoulder surgeon. I am pdresenrt.y 76 yrs of age, I played golf today & now can't sleep because my left hand hurts & My left middle finger (especially) … read more

Can golf cause left shoulder pain?

How do you fix golf shoulder pain?

How do I stop my left shoulder from hurting?

Should I golf if my shoulder hurts?

Does golf hurt rotator cuff?

How do you stretch your shoulders for golf?

How can I tell if I tore my rotator cuff?

What stretches help shoulder pain?

How do you know if left shoulder pain is heart related?

Can playing golf cause frozen shoulder?

What muscles are involved in shoulder pain?

Muscles can be broken down into a couple of different categories in the shoulder. To make it simple, we will start with rotator cuff and non-rotator cuff, and even getting further than that, muscles of the trunk, the legs, and hips, and so on, are very important in decreasing the possibility of shoulder conditions.

What are the two structures that are involved in the pinching of the shoulder?

The two bony structures involved are the humeral head and the acromion process of the scapula. Between these two structures are tendons and a bursa. If they become crushed, they can create a pinching pain with shoulder elevation…hence the name “impingement.”.

Which muscle group holds the shoulder ball and socket together?

The rotator cuff is the group of four muscles that hold the shoulder ball and socket together.

Why should a doctor evaluate you for shoulder instability?

Note: with shoulder instability, a doctor should really evaluate you because some types of instability are surgical cases while others respond really well to rehab. As a general rule, if there was trauma involved and you’re a young person, then you’re most likely going to be a surgical case. Shoulder Rehab Podcast.

What is shoulder blade strength?

Shoulder blade strength is the ability of the shoulder blade (or scapula) to keep its proper position and move well when needed.

Do you have to fall to tear a rotator cuff?

You don’t have to fall to have a rotator cuff tear. Keep swinging like a weekend warrior and you could have one develop over the years.

Where is the shoulder blade located?

The shoulder blade is located on the back side of the body , it’s like the wing that you have back there. Actually, what most people don’t realize if you put hand on top of your shoulder and kind of inch your fingers back you will actually find this bony area right there (it feels like a ridge).

How to heal a swollen shoulder from golf?

That’s great, but you need to think of yourself like a baseball pitcher and both train and warm up the entire shoulder musculature so it can withstand golf ’s stresses. Google “the Thrower’s Ten” exercise program and get cracking on internal and external rotation strengthening. Once you experience shoulder discomfort, use common sense. Rest and ice and, if needed, an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory should reduce the swelling; combined with strengthening exercises, you can expect improvement in three to seven days.

Where does rotator cuff pain come from?

This comes from an impingement of the rotator cuff or its being overloaded.

How long does it take for a shoulder to heal?

Rest and ice and, if needed, an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory should reduce the swelling; combined with strengthening exercises, you can expect improvement in three to seven days.

Can golfers get shoulder issues?

As golfers get older, they are more susceptible to shoulder issues. For golfers, age brings wisdom … and a greater chance of rotator cuff pathologies. Sports with repetitive overhead motions, like golf and baseball, often have higher incidents of tears and bursitis, and older people are already susceptible to these issues.

When to start golfing with shoulder?

Golf drills can generally start at the second or third month and the player return to the pre-teaching pro at that stage under guidance and with good communication from the physiotherapist and surgeon.

What shoulder is the excess internal rotation?

One may find excess internal rotation on the leading shoulder compared to the non leading shoulder. Assessment of internal rotation in the golfer. Note the excess internal rotation in the leading shoulder (left shoulder) compared to the non-leading shoulder (right shoulder):

What to do with a golfer with a normal MR arthrogram?

This should include scapular correction exercises, balancing the scapular protractors and retractors as well as sports specific rehabilitation. Core stability and working on the kinetic chain particularly for golf is essential.

What is the impingement on the non-leading shoulder?

Internal impingement on the non-leading shoulder exists between infraspinatus and the gleno-humeral joint, due to the extreme external rotation of the golf swing.

What is the difference between a leading and non leading shoulder in golf?

The leading shoulder is forced and stretched into an extreme adducted position at the top of the backswing and the non leading shoulder into an abducted externally rotated position. This leads to very different pathologies in each shoulder.

How to recapture a golf swing?

The swing can be recaptured and very early on by performing simple body twisting exercises reproducing the swing motions and working on core stability and kinetic chain in this way. The sport can be brought into the therapists gym by using therabands to reproduce the golf swing.

What is the X factor of a golf swing?

This is known as the X factor and a high X factor of 70° is thought to be advantageous for a powerful drive.

How to stop shoulder pain while playing golf?

Resting When Needed: If your shoulder starts to hurt while you play golf, take a break — you need to allow your muscles to heal to prevent worse damage from occurring. You can ask your shoulder specialist for more ideas tailored to your needs.

How to make golf safer for shoulder?

If you have a shoulder issue like tendonitis, you can make golf safer for your shoulder by taking the right precautions. Prevent further injury with strategies like: Modifying Your Swing: To avoid shoulder pain during golf, try reducing your follow-through or backswing. Limiting the motions you make during the game reduces your risk of damage.

How to use golf shoes?

Remember to wear golf shoes that fit your feet so they help you use the right form. Practicing Correct Technique: Your swing has the biggest impact on the muscles throughout your body, including your shoulder muscles. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your spine straight.

How to keep shoulder in good shape?

You can keep your shoulder in good shape by: Using the Right Equipment: Make sure you use the appropriate golf clubs for your height and weight. A golf professional can help you find a set that improves your performance and reduces strain on your shoulder.

What is the proper way to swing golf?

A proper golf swing involves all parts of the body instead of just one. Relying on your shoulders or back to power your swing can result in excess strain. If you find yourself sore after every round of golf, ask a professional to coach you on your technique. Strengthening Your Shoulder With Exercise: Basic strength training ...

How to get better at golf before playing?

Warm up Before Your Games: Just like with any other sport, warming up before playing golf reduces your risk of injury. Stretches, jumping jacks and swing practice will keep your muscles flexible.

How to strengthen your shoulder?

Strengthening Your Shoulder With Exercise: Basic strength training that focuses on your shoulder and back muscles will improve their endurance and flexibility. You can work with a personal trainer to find exercises compatible with any shoulder conditions you have.

What happens if you take your left shoulder?

If you take your left shoulder, you keep swinging across your chest as most people do, and they’ve even been taught to do this. First of now, you’re not gonna make a full shoulder turn. I talk about that in another video. Your left shoulder’s gonna feel fully loaded up. The subacromial space is pinched, and now you try and push really hard with the right shoulder.

Why do amateurs play golf from the left side?

The reality is that most amateurs, because they’re right-handed, but playing from the left side of the golf ball tend to use their dominate hand, which is their right hand, of course, to push the club into impact. It feels more powerful, but it actually creates more problems in the golf swing.

How many golfers get injured in the rotary swing tour?

It’s no fun getting injured. And four out of five tour players get injured and miss about two months of play from a golf swing related injury. So, if you don’t want to be a part of those stats, and you want to start swinging more powerful and more efficient, and more importantly, be able to play golf forever and not be injured, listen up. Because, I want you to understand one simple concept that will completely change the way you think about the golf swing.

What is the subacromial space in the left arm?

Well, you have the subacromial space that runs between your clavicle and your humerus. It’s a nerve passageway. So, if you’ve ever felt numbness or tingling going down your left arm, really listen up, because this is gonna apply directly to you, because you’re pretty much heading down a road to guarantee that you’re gonna have bone spurs and need a surgery to fix a golf swing fundamental issue in your swing.

How to hit the ball with your left arm?

You’re taking your left arm and pushing it across your chest. Take your right shoulder. Pull it behind your head, keeping your arms relaxed out in front of you . Not only will you prevent injury, but you will hit the ball further, more consistently with less effort than you ever thought possible.

Is golf swing injury preventable in Florida?

Having a golf academy in Florida, you see so many preventable golf swing related injuries that are chronic, that lead to missing rounds of golf, missing seasons of golf, leading to surgery , physical therapy, and they’re almost always completely preventable. And they’re almost always because somebody has been given the wrong advice.

Use Good Technique

Be sure you have correct overall form and muscle activation patterns to help the shoulder muscles work properly. If your shoulder is sore after a game, you may need to refine your swing.

Avoid Overuse

Overuse injuries can occur from hitting too many golf balls in practice. If your shoulder starts to hurt during a game, stop playing. Don’t resume playing until the pain stops, and see OrthoNY if the pain persists.

Consider Some Obvious Basics

Don’t carry a heavy bag with a sore or aching shoulder. Use the right equipment, and be sure your clubs are at the right length and weight for you. Playing with clubs that are too short can cause you to swing improperly resulting in strains and injury.

Swing With Good Form

Golf is an activity that involves repetitive motions, and bad form can lead to injuries. Take time to practice your swinging form, and it will help to reduce the risk of shoulder related injuries.

Transfer Weight Consistently

Use the larger parts of your body like your legs, hips, and trunk to transfer weight. Shoulder motion should occur after the hip and trunk motion during the downswing.

After Shoulder Surgery

Modify your swing by shortening the backswing or reducing follow through. If shoulder rotation becomes limited, you may need longer clubs. Use a rolled up towel under your right arm during practice swings to keep the elbow close to your body and limit strain on the shoulder.

What does it mean when your shoulder pops out?

A dislocation is when the humerus (upper arm) separates from the socket made by the clavicle and scapula. Keep your arm still and see a doctor, who will be able to put it back into the socket manually.

What does it mean when your arm hurts when you lift it?

If you are unable to, or experience pain at the shoulder end of your collar bone, you might have a separated shoulder. This condition is a separation of the clavicle (collar bone) and the scapula (shoulder blade) and is usually treated by immobilizing the arm and taking analgesics that reduce swelling ...

What happens when you twist your arm to throw a ball?

Swing pain. Check for pain during a club swing. If you've torn your rotator cuff, you will experience pain when twisting your arm to throw a ball or swing a club. This is a fairly common injury for golfers and occurs when a tendon (the Acromion) is pinched between the humerus and its socket, causing a tear in the tendon.

What is it called when you can't move your shoulder?

If you can not move your shoulder at all, you may have a "frozen" shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis. "Frozen" shoulder is a long-term condition usually precipitated by an injury which causes soreness and stiffness for three or more months.

Can shoulder strain hurt golfers?

Repetitve shoulder exertion can injure even the most seasoned golfers.

Why do amateur golfers get injured?

Hank Johnson: I agree that most injuries to amateurs come from faulty technique, often because they overreach their capabilities. You have average players trying to copy tour players, and they get (a) frustrated and (b) hurt. After Dr. Andrews explains the injuries, I'll give you a setup or swing adjustment that takes some strain off that part of the body. These adjustments might move you away from the ideal biomechanics of the golf swing, but they'll help you do something even more important: Keep playing golf.

How to avoid hitting a golf club with your left hand?

HOW TO AVOID INJURY: If you grip the club with your left hand in a weak position, the thumb down the top of the handle (above, 1), you risk having a flat or even bowed left wrist at impact. Instead, rotate your left hand away from the target about 30 degrees from that weak position. This will put the thumb at about 1:30 on an imaginary clock face, more down the right side of the grip, and create the slight cup you want in the wrist (2). — Johnson

What happens when you swing a golf shot?

WHAT HAPPENS: A strained lower back is the most common golf injury, and the one most likely to shorten a career. The modern power swing is all about the rotation of the pelvis through the shot. The torque this creates between the pelvis and the lumbar spine pulls the ligaments, tendons and muscles in that area. Also, the shearing effect can wear away the discs between the vertebrae in the lumbar spine, leading to disc disease; that's the real career-ender. — Andrews

What is a labral tear in golf?

But labral tears (torn cartilage) are becoming common and often can be traced to the backswing. When golfers keep the left arm tight to the chest as they swing back, they can tear the labrum that stabilizes the shoulder joint. This is called a posterior labral tear, and the golfer feels pain in the back of the shoulder. — Andrews

What is it called when you have tennis elbow?

It's called lateral epicondylitis , or tennis elbow. Golfer's elbow affects the inside of the trail arm and is caused by the repeated straining and rotation of that arm through impact, but it's less common. — Andrews. HOW TO AVOID INJURY: Many golfers confuse keeping the left arm straight with locking it (below, 1).

How to avoid injury in golf?

HOW TO AVOID INJURY: Players who don't turn well in the backswing tend to pin the left arm across the chest ( above, 1). Turning the upper body can be physically challenging for some golfers; others find it just plain scary, because they feel as if they won't get back to hit the ball.

What happens when you swing through the left side of your knee?

This results in the inner side of the left knee absorbing a tremendous amount of torque and compression. Many golfers square the left foot and lock the knee in an internally rotated position (right, 1), which leads to an increased shearing force on the knee joint. The typical injury is to the medial meniscus and can lead to degeneration of the articular cartilage and arthritis. — Andrews