Score a hole-in-one this season with golf tips from Mercy Rehabilitation Services

As the weather is getting warmer and the grass is getting greener, golf enthusiasts are ready to hit the local courses and play a round of 18 holes with friends. But, before you hit the course, it is important to remember to get your body ready for maximum performance.

Multiple body parts are involved in the game of golf from head to toe which is why physical therapist and sports medicine professionals recommend dynamic stretches to help prevent injury and improve performance.

It is recommended that golfers take a few minutes to prepare their bodies before heading to the course. The neck, back, legs and arms work together to provide an effective platform for golfing.

The physical therapy team at Mercy Health recommends the following dynamic stretches to perform before playing: Arm and leg swings: Start with your feet shoulder width apart. Swing your arms back and forth across the front of your body repeating 10-15 times. Next hold on for balance, swing one leg forward and backward. Repeat with the other leg. Performing 10-15 times each leg. Overhead squats: Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Extend arms overhead. Squat down until your thighs are parallel to ground. Keep this motion pain-free. Repeat 10-15 repetitions. Trunk and hip rotation: Secure the club behind your back with your arms, rotate your trunk side to side 10-15 times. Keep your feet shoulder width apart with knees and waist slightly bent. Using the same position, keep your trunk still and rotate your hips side to side turning your hips right and then left of midline. Touch your toes: Standing shoulder width apart, reach your right hand to the opposite foot. Return upright and reach your left hand to the opposite foot. Repeat 10-15 times each side. Physical therapy can provide you with an individualized program to keep you on top of your game. Mercy Rehabilitation Services physical therapy services range from treating a specific injury to implementing a program for functional integration back into your daily living. Discuss your concerns with your doctor and ask for a referral to physical therapy to address your injury.

For more information on how the Mercy Rehabilitation Services physical therapy department can help you heal from an injury, call (440) 960-3400.