Tendonitis in the Wrist : Golf Injuries

Most golf injuries occur as a result of overuse or poor technique. The wrist is put under a lot of strain during golf. Additional pressure is placed on the wrist if it is overused or golfers have a poor swing technique, which may lead to tendonitis.

What are Tendons?

A tendon is a strong, flexible fibrous tissue that joins muscles to bones. They work in conjunction with the muscles and bones to help the body move.

What Causes Tendonitis in the Wrist?

Because the tendons in the wrist play such a pivotal role in the golf swing, they are vulnerable to injury. The tendons can become inflammed and irritated if they are weakened through over-practise or improper use. Professional golfers are more likely to develop tendonitis through playing too much and not allowing the wrists to have enough rest, whereas inexperienced players are more likely to suffer tendonitis through bad technique and lack of proper wrist control. Gripping the club too tightly during the golf swing is a common cause of tendonitis. There are two types of tendonitis that affect golfers:

General Tendonitis occurs when the extensor tendons at the back of the wrist and hand or the flexor tendons at the front of the wrist and hand become inflammed.

DeQuervain's tendonitis refers specifically to inflammation of the tendon at the base of the thumb.

What are the Symptoms of Tendonitis?

There will be pain and inflammation in the affected tendons in the wrist. The pain will probably be worse when gripping objects or twisting the hand.

Preventing Tendonitis in the Wrist

You can reduce the risk of developing tendonitis by ensuring your clubs are suitable for your ability and that you are using them correctly. Resistance exercises will increase strength and flexibility in the tendons, reducing the likelihood of injury. Warming up before playing and stretching the wrists will further help to protect against injury. Also, if you feel any pain in your wrist when playing golf, you should stop immediately to minimize the risk of further injury.

Treating Tendonitis in the Wrist

Applying ice wrapped in a cloth to the inflammed tendons and taking anti-inflammatory medication will help to reduce pain and swelling during the first couple of days. The wrist may also be put in a splint to completely immobilize the tendons, which will further reduce swelling and promote healing. It may also be necessary to have cortisone injected directly into the inflammed area. Surgery is carried out in rare cases to remove the inflammed tissue, but only as a last resort.