It is estimated that there are approximately 60 million people around the world who play the sport of golf. With this many people (professionals, amateurs, and hobbyists) and those many swings, something is bound to give in the human body; and for most golfers, it has something to do with their feet. Although the sport may seem relaxed compared to contact sports like football for example, golfers are not spared from pains, stiffness, and even nerve damage.
The good news for golfers is that many of the conditions they are vulnerable to do not require any surgical solution. Did you know that there are 5 foot conditions that can affect the level of play of golfers?
Neuromas
This condition thickens the nerves to a point where they become enlarged and cause you pain. The pain is the result of the compression and irritation of the nerves of the feet. When neuroma occurs at the balls of your feet it can have immense impact on how your body handles the transfer of your weight from one foot to another.
And with golf, we all know that an effective swing relies on the efficient distribution of your body weight. Aside from problems with your balance, neuromas can also affect your golf game because it can result in vertigo, headaches, unsteadiness, and confusion.
Arthritis
This condition is quite common and can have serious consequences on your game because it makes it difficult to create a follow-through swing. It is estimated that arthritis affects around 350 million people of varying ages around the world. In the United States alone, there are approximately 40 million that suffer from this condition that can severely limit your movement and flexibility.
Heel Pain
When the band of tissue extending from your heel to the balls of your feet become inflamed, you will experience heel pain. The pain can become so uncomfortable that even maintaining the proper golf stance can be challenging. The spikes at the balls of your feet do not help the condition a bit. This is because the spikes create pressure that builds up as you take those numerous steps around the green. The pain eventually combines with swelling of the balls of your feet.
Hallux Limitus
This is a condition specific to the big toe of your feet. It is often the result of the overextension of the joint of the big toe of their back foot causing limited motion. For golfers that have played for years, this means that possibility of the wearing out of the cartilage. This condition is commonly observed in the age group of 30 to 50 years old who regularly play golf.
For right handed players, it is usually the big toe of the right foot that is affected and the same the other way around for left handed golfers. Any previous trauma of the big toe become a contributory factor to hallux limitus; making it more difficult to play and enjoy the game of golf. The biggest consequence for golfers is that they will not be able to finish the follow-through, which is essential in the mechanics of the swing.
This condition not only makes it difficult to swing the club but also affects your walking. Of course you can always use the golf cart, but this means giving up on your walking exercise as well as enjoying the green.
The Importance of Shoes
Are you also aware that ill-fitting golf shoes can worsen any or all of these conditions? The discomfort can also cause calluses and corns, which definitely impacts your overall golf game. This is why even podiatric surgeons emphasise on the importance of having good golf shoes.
Understand that good golf shoes can keep your feet healthy and improve your game as well. When buying golf shoes look for:
- Good fit;
- Excellent traction;
- Reasonable cushioning; and
- Superb stability.
Always remember that foot pain is never normal and having pain-free feet will tremendously improve your game on the green. Let Foot Solutions keep your feet comfortable and fit on the green and off. Visit Foot Solutions store in your area today!
