
Generally, hand pain from golf grip and other golf injuries occur due to the following factors:
- Overuse of the hand muscles
- Inappropriate movement or poor technique
- Inability to warm up
- Improper physical condition
Why does My Thumb hurt when I Hold my golf grip?
This hand pain from golf grip is due to continuous pressure on the thumb base. As the pressure becomes repetitive, sheath inflammation will eventually occur. Generally, swelling and tenderness are the common indications of thumb tenosynovitis.
What causes pain after a round of golf?
A common area for a golfer to feel pain after a round of golf is in his hands, which can come under strain when a golfer misplays a ball. These injuries require various forms of treatment.
Why are my arms injured when playing golf?
Weak tendons are easier to injure. Since golfing puts so much strain on your arms, being in shape matters. If you’re going to be golfing often, stretching and strength training for your arms are a good idea. Going straight to the teebox and swinging full-speed increases your chance of injury.
Is it painful to break your hand in golf?
When they occur, however, they are painful and may require extensive care. The most common hand break in golf occurs when a ball is struck fat, meaning the player hits the ground behind the ball, jarring the shaft.

How do you heal a golfer's thumb?
Immediate treatment consisting of regular icing, rest, stretching and possibly a brace will help alleviate the symptoms. Swing technique and grip should be assessed to avoid a reoccurrence.
Is it normal for fingers to hurt after golf?
Trigger finger injury is one of the most common injuries that golf players experience. It's a condition caused when the flexor tendon sheath that the tendons in your fingers run through is inflamed. The inflammation inhibits smooth movements during finger extension.
What helps sore hands from golf?
The most common wrist/hand complaint is due to tendonitis (tendon inflammation) of any of the tendons that cross the wrist. Treatment usually consists of rest, splinting, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.
Why is my thumb numb after golfing?
A painless, firm grip is needed to confidently swing a golf club. If you feel tingling, numbness or sore hands after golf or other every day activities, you may have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Fortunately, the condition is easy to diagnose, and treatments can relieve symptoms.
Why do golfers wear tape on their fingers?
Many golfers wear tape on their fingers to prevent or cover up hot spots, blisters, calluses, cuts, and other uncomfortable distractions. It's part of their prep, covering up the fingers that tend to get mangled during a round of golf or a long session at the range.
How do you tape your fingers for golf?
0:081:17A99 Golf How to Use the Finger Guard Tape - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou do not need to use scissors to rip the tape. The tape is made out of a self-stick material whichMoreYou do not need to use scissors to rip the tape. The tape is made out of a self-stick material which ensures that the tape will wrap itself around your fingers. It only sticks to yourself.
What is the most common injury in golf?
The 5 Most Common Golf Injuries (and What to Do About Them)Back Pain. ... Rotator Cuff Injury. ... Tennis Elbow and Golf Elbow. ... Knee Pain and Damage. ... Tendinitis in the Wrists.
Do pro golfers get carpal tunnel?
Unfortunately, avid golfers experience a high incidence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, doubtlessly because they use their hands and wrists so intensely with every stroke of the club. Golf and Carpal Tunnel do not mix well.
Can golf cause arthritis in hands?
Yes, It's Possible! Arthritis can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints that can interfere with daily activities and make physical activity difficult. You may be tempted to give up physical activity altogether to avoid pain.
What is the proper golf grip?
5:179:50How to Properly Grip Your Golf Club | GOLFPASS | Golf Channel - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe heel pad sits on top the v that we make with the thumb. And forefinger of the lead hand wellMoreThe heel pad sits on top the v that we make with the thumb. And forefinger of the lead hand well that points to the trail. Shoulder. The snuff box is on top of the club.
Can golf cause de Quervain's tenosynovitis?
Repetitive gripping with your hand and bending of your wrist is thought to be the cause of de Quervain's tenosynovitis. This can happen in racket sports, such as tennis or racquetball, golf, or any activity where you grip with your hand and bend your wrist over and over again, such as lifting a child.
Are there exercises for carpal tunnel?
Bend your wrist, pointing your hand toward the floor. With your other hand, gently bend your wrist farther until you feel a mild to moderate stretch in your forearm. Hold for at least 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat 2 to 4 times.
Why does my left thumb hurt after playing golf?
Pushing with your left thumb may be causing you to cast your club and causing left thumb pain. The very powerful left thumb pushing against the sha...
What is a long thumb in a golf grip?
A long thumb grip in golf will have your thumb extending down the grip so that it extends past the other fingers on the golf club. What you really...
Where should the left thumb be in the golf grip?
The last three fingers of your left hand (for right-handed golfers) are the most critical and even your thumb plays a critical role in the golf swi...
What do you do with your left thumb in a golf grip?
Incorrect use of the left thumb is one of the main causes of losing lag in the golf swing. In a "strong" grip, the V of the left thumb points beyon...
Why do my fingers hurt after playing golf?
If your pain is isolated primarily in the base of certain fingers after golf, you may be suffering from isolated flexor tendonitis. Your flexor tendons are those that connect the muscles in your forearms to your fingers, and the constant flexing and squeezing of the fingers in sports like golf and tennis can result in flexor tendonitis .
What is the pain in the middle of my finger after golf?
If your pain is isolated primarily in the base of certain fingers after golf, you may be suffering from isolated flexor tendonitis.
What causes flexor tendonitis in the middle finger?
If your pain is isolated primarily in the base of certain fingers after golf, you may be suffering from isolated flexor tendonitis. Your flexor tendons are those that connect the muscles in your forearms to your fingers, and the constant flexing and squeezing of the fingers in sports like golf and tennis can result in flexor tendonitis. Part of the tendon can become inflamed and swollen and a nodule develops around the base of the affected fingers. Commonly affected digits include the ring finger, middle finger and thumb, though any finger can have such problems. Cortisone injections can be helpful, as can resting the hand or using supportive splints.
What to do if you have a sore finger from golf?
Also, if you consistently have a sore finger or soreness in any body part from golf, tell your doctor and be ready to provide details about the condition. Be able to explain the nature of the pain as sharp, throbbing, dull, tingly and so on.
How to tell if your finger is hurting from golf?
If you start to notice pain in your fingers from golf, talk with your local golf pro about your grip and swing. You may be gripping the club too tightly or in a manner that is putting too much pressure on one finger. A pro might have some easy changes you can make. Also, if you consistently have a sore finger or soreness in any body part from golf, tell your doctor and be ready to provide details about the condition. Be able to explain the nature of the pain as sharp, throbbing, dull, tingly and so on. And think about when it started, how long it lasts, what helps relieve it and how much it hurts on a scale of 1 to 10.
What is the condition that attacks golfers?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune condition and can strike people in their 30s and 40s. It also often appears in the hands, so the tight grip on a club for a round of golf can leave rheumatoid arthritis sufferers in real pain 1. Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that attacked superstar golfer Phil Mickelson in 2010.
What to do if your finger hurts from golf?
If you start to notice pain in your fingers from golf, talk with your local golf pro about your grip and swing. Also, if you consistently have a sore finger or soreness in any body part from golf, tell your doctor and be ready to provide details about the condition.
Why does my thumb feel weakened?
Your hand may feel weakened as discomfort can lead to protecting the thumb from tasks (e.g., opening jar s) in which grip power is necessary and potentially painful. Self-Care: There is a wide range of nonsurgical managements—ice, heat, splints and judicious use of over-the-counter anti-inflammatories.
What is the thumb in golf?
The thumb is remarkable, and we ask much of it. Gripping a golf club throughout the swing means positioning the thumb at multiple points in space , and that demands great flexibility. This flexibility is provided by two hinge joints and the very agile basilar joint — where the thumb plugs into your wrist — plus great strength and stability.
What joint should a thumb splint be used for?
Any splint used should include the thumb to help support the basilar joint. Doctor Visit: A diagnosis will likely entail the doctor loading the thumb’s basilar joint and briefly “grinding” it — you may feel the discomfort and mechanical symptoms that accompany joint irregularity.
Can golfers get arthritis?
This balancing act can create a problem that manifests as friction at the basilar joint—aka arthritis. Almost all golfers will eventually get a little degenerative “wear and tear” arthritis at the thumb joint.
Why does my golfer's elbow hurt?
Basically, the cause is due to movement repetition of club swinging or gripping. Golfer’s elbow is a condition that damages the tendons, the one attaching the flexor muscles and the medial epicondyle.
How to stop hand pain from golf grip?
Another way that can help you in preventing hand pain from golf grip is doing the RICE therapy which stands for R est, I ce, C ompression, and E levation technique. This is generally beneficial when the golfers feel some soreness not only in the hands but also in other areas of the body.
What happens if you break a hamate bone?
Moreover, this is a rare type of fracture with just a rate of 2% for the bony hook. Bruising, swelling, loss of grip and pain are the most common symptoms of Hamate bone fractures.
What happens when you hit a golf club?
This usually occurs once the golf club hits the ground and necessitates the handle to bump against the bony hook. Basically, the bony hook is a part of the small bones within the wrist that builds up the carpals. Once the bony hooks break up, the hand pain from golf grip will then be experienced.
How to know if a golf club is good for your hand?
Moreover, make sure that the club is in correct fitting beyond the palm of your hand to prevent digging of the grip end into the palm during the swing.
What to do if your hand hurts from golf grip?
Once suffering from this kind of hand pain from golf grip, immediate treatment should be given such as surgery. Cartilage tears. Most of the time, in playing golf, there would be a possibility of developing tears within the triangular fibrocartilage complex.
How to prevent golf injury?
In order to maintain fitness and balance, it is advisable to do some stretching and strengthening. This may also help to prevent any pain and injury related to golf. Moreover, having regular exercise in between games may generally avoid the occurrence of weekend warrior syndrome.
larrybud
I get thumb pain at the base of the thumb, where the tendon attaches to the wrist, when I beat too many range balls. Usually goes away after a couple of days of rest.
lkangsterl
i get some pain too. starting from the tip of the thumb, my pain is at the second joint/knuckle down. i think its because when im swinging poorly, i flip and the shaft 'hyperextends' my thumb backwards.
BNich0622
I got this pain on the back of my hand where the thumb meets the wrist. Had a tough lie under a tree. follow through caught the tree trunk. Its sore when I grip the club and swing.
pinehurst
I used to get left thumb pain...bad. Then I learned what a proper grip was and it all went away.
bananapel
It's just soreness. I am going through it right now and do every year when I play. I just stopped doing everything with it for one day (yesterday) and it feels a lot better today. Took today off so tomorrow it will be better to hit a couple shots. Then I'll be back on Sunday playing again. Just give it 2-3 days and you'll be fine.
ppl4golf
I used to get left thumb pain...bad. Then I learned what a proper grip was and it all went away.
Big Ben
I had a buddy who battled a similar problem for almost an entire golf season. If I recall it had something too do with inflammation in the sheath the tendon slides in. Something to that effect. It was a sharp numbing pain and it seems pretty nasty. BB
What are the injuries in golf?
Golf Injuries to the Hand, Wrist or Elbow. Hand, wrist and elbow injuries are common for golfers of all skill levels. The golf swing is a complex, coordinated series of motions. Golf injuries can result from poor technique or overuse. They can also result from a single direct blow, like hitting a tree root. The following are a few ways that could ...
How to treat tendonitis in golfer's elbow?
Initial treatment for tendonitis consists of rest, ice, stretching, splinting and anti-inflammatory medications. For tennis elbow , try to lift objects palm up. For golfer’s elbow, try to lift objects with the palm down.
What causes tendonitis in the elbow?
The inner aspect of the elbow where medial epicondylitis, one of the common golf injuries, causes painful tendonitis. Hook of the hamate as it grips a golf club. The hook part of the bone can break, causing a hamate bone fractures, one of the common golf injuries.
What are the types of injuries that can occur in golf?
Types of Golf Injuries. Golf injuries can include tendonitis, sprains or fractures (broken bones). These injuries may arise by the repeated stress of practicing the golf swing. Gripping activities like hammering or heavy lifting can also cause these injuries. Some specific golf injuries may include: Sprained Wrist.
Where does tendonitis occur in the hand?
In the wrist, tendonitis often occurs in the leading hand (left hand for a right handed player). In the elbow, this can sometimes be referred to as medial epicondylitis or “golfer’s elbow.”. Pain is often on the inner, or medial, part of the elbow. This is where the muscles that bend the wrist and fingers attach (Figure 1).
What causes a blood clot in the palm of the hand?
The ulnar artery is one of the main arteries to the hand. This occurs where repeated blows weaken the vessel wall. It then causes it to increase in size, and sometimes a blood clot forms. There is often pain in the palm, and sometimes disrupted blood flow going to the fingertips.
How to fix golfer's elbow?
For golfer’s elbow, try to lift objects with the palm down. Tendonitis can be improved by certain exercises. These exercises stretch and strengthen muscles and tendons. These can be recommended by a hand therapist. Changing grips on the golf club may also help.
What causes a golfer's hand to break?
The most common hand break in golf occurs when a ball is struck fat, meaning the player hits the ground behind the ball, jarring the shaft. When the club is held too high on the shaft, so that none of the shaft extends out of the top of the hands, the top of the shaft drives into the hand and may break it. Such an injury often requires surgery ...
How to treat a hand injury after a round?
Injuries to tendons are less likely to require medical attention such as surgery, and often are treated with simple measures. Icing an injured hand after a round will help numb the pain and reduce the swelling. Stretching the tendons before a round can lower the risk of injury during the round, and rest is effective if hand pain occurs progressively earlier in each round.
What are cumulative injuries?
Cumulative injuries develop as a result of repeated minor strains placed on the body with every swing. These often appear as inflammation and aches in the hand joints.
Can golf gloves cause hand injuries?
By Robert Preston. Improper grips, swings or not using a golf glove can cause hand injuries. While injury risks in golf are low, the sport is not without its potential pitfalls. A common area for a golfer to feel pain after a round of golf is in his hands, which can come under strain when a golfer misplays a ball.
Why does my hand hurt after playing golf?
Hand Injuries. A bad grip often contributes to hand pain after golf. Gripping the club too tightly or in the wrong way can result in injury. One hand injury we see in golfers is a fracture of the hook of the hamate. The hook of the hamate is a bone in your wrist. It can be broken when your club strikes the gound hard.
Why does my wrist hurt after golfing?
If you’ve been noticing a gradual increase in wrist pain after golfing, it may be tendinitis. Wrist tendinitis comes with overuse or poor form. Stress from swinging the club causes tiny tears in your wrist tendons. Those tendons get inflamed and cause pain.
How are these golf injuries treated?
No golfer wants to spend less time on the course. And there’s a temptation to “play through the pain.” That won’t work. Overuse is a cause of most of these injuries. So using your arms more is only going to make the problem worse.
How do you avoid golf injuries?
Aside from overuse, poor swing mechanics lead to injury. Hitting fat shots comes from bad form. Awkward motion during your swing puts extra pressure on your ligaments and tendons. If you’re going to be playing often, it’s worth your time and money to take a few lessons from a golf pro.
What are the most common wrist injuries?
Wrist Injuries. Sprained wrists are one of the most common golf-related wrist injuries that we see. Sprains often happen when golfers strike a root or rock during their swing. Poor mechanics can also lead to sprains, since hitting a fat shot puts so much strain on your wrists.
What to do if your elbow hurts after touching?
If you feel very sharp pain in your elbow after making contact, you see a doctor. At the very least you may have strained a ligament. At worse, you’ve torn it.
How to get your arms to be stronger while golfing?
Since golfing puts so much strain on your arms, being in shape matters. If you’re going to be golfing often, stretching and strength training for your arms are a good idea.
What happens when you swing your hand?
The forces applied to the hands throughout the swing can cause soft-tissue inflammation or sprains, nerve damage, or fractures to the eight tiny carpal bones of the joint. The most easily injured is the hamate bone on the pinky side of your glove hand at the wrist.
How many diameters are golf grips?
GET FITTED. ▶ Grips come in four diameters, according to Golf Pride, and you can use tape to vary the thickness even more. Unfortunately, most average golfers don't realize this and simply use the grips that came on the clubs. If your grip is too small, the tendency is to hold it in the palms ( see No. 2) and/or too tightly.
Do golfers have hand injuries?
Considering the punishment your wrists endure because of golf—helping you swing the club through thick grass, plugged bunker lies and two-hour grind sessions on the range—it's amazing more golfers don't suffer hand injuries. "Actually, they do," says Dave Phillips, golf-and-fitness expert at the Titleist Performance Institute. "They're fairly common, and you typically don't come back quickly from one."
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 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 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).
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
What happens when you lock your knee in golf?
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.
