Indiana Golf Journal February 2022

Most Common Ortho Issues for Male Golfers Franciscan Health Most people, especially golfers, will experience joint or bone issues, particularly as they age. However, due to physical and hormonal differences, men have an injury risk distinct from that of women. James Hartson, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at Franciscan Health Michigan City, says men tend to have orthopedic injuries that are less common in women. These injuries include trauma such as hand and wrist fractures. “Men tend to do more manual labor, weekend home repairs As men age, bone density decreases, making fractures more likely. The National Institutes of Health reports that incidents involving fractures are 10 to 15 times more likely to occur in adults aged 60 or older. Arthritis and lower back problems also increase with age. What can men do to prevent injuries? Dr. Hartson believes that most injuries can be prevented by following overall wellness guidelines, including a well-balanced diet and a routine exercise program that includes cardiovascular exercises and light weight training with dumbbells or machines. “As we age, flexibility becomes increasingly important. The less flexible the muscles and tendons, the increased risk of strains, tears and ruptures. I would recommend a good flexibility class or yoga,” added Hartson. While research continues to improve injury treatment, Dr. and physical hobbies that lead to hand and wrist fractures,” Dr. Hartson said. “Younger men who participate in contact sports and extreme sports are more common to fracture their upper extremities.” Physical activities or labor can lead to soft tissue injuries such as torn knee meniscus, distal biceps rupture (a tear of the tendon from the forearm bone) and rotator cuff issues in the shoulder. Tears of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone, are much more common in men. Indiana Golf Journal

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