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Orthopedics/Sports
Mayo Clinic Minute: Dynamic golf warmup to prevent injuries
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Nothing disrupts a round of golf faster than back, shoulder or elbow pain. Golf may not look high-impact, but the repetitive rotational forces of the swing place significant stress on the spine, shoulders, hips and forearms. Over time, small mobility limitations or strength imbalances can lead to persistent pain or more complex injuries.
John Zajac, a certified golf physical therapist at Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine, demonstrates the best pre-golf dynamic warmup stretches.
Journalists: Broadcast-quality video (1:04) is in the downloads at the end of this post. Please courtesy: "Mayo Clinic News Network." Read the script.
Mayo Clinic doesn’t just advise golfers on stretches and strength. For 25 years, it has served as the official medical sponsor of the WM Phoenix Open, providing on-site care for athletes, event staff and spectators. Supporting one of the world’s largest golf events, from heat-related illness to musculoskeletal injuries, reflects deep expertise in both prevention and knowing when specialized care is needed.
The golf swing requires coordinated rotation through the hips and upper back. When those areas are stiff, the lower spine often compensates, increasing strain and risk of injury. Spend 5-10 minutes warming up before each round. It helps improve performance and protects your joints.
These golf warmup stretches help you stay healthy and out of the orthopedics office. See you on the green.
Related posts:
- Mayo Clinic Minute: 4 physical therapist-recommended golf exercises
- Mayo Clinic Minute: Are the yips just nerves or something more?
- Mayo Clinic Q and A: Golf-related wrist pain and injuries
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