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Dr. Anthony Kopp

Understanding and Managing Knee Pain in Recreational Golfers: Your Path to Pain-Free Golf

Knee pain can be a real game-changer, especially for recreational golfers. While you might think it’s just a part of getting older or the wear and tear from playing, it’s important to understand that knee pain is often a symptom of a deeper issue. Addressing this pain early can not only improve your game but also prevent long-term damage. Let’s explore why knee pain happens in golfers and what you can do to get back to playing without discomfort.



Why Do Golfers Experience Knee Pain?

Golf is a sport that demands a lot from your body, particularly during the swing. The knee, being a major weight-bearing joint, absorbs much of the stress during your game. Common causes of knee pain in golfers include:

  1. Poor Hip and Foot Stability: If your hips and feet aren’t providing the support they should, your knees will take on extra stress, leading to pain. This is especially true during the rotational movement of your swing.

  2. Repetitive Strain: The repetitive nature of the golf swing can lead to overuse injuries. If your swing mechanics are off, this can exacerbate the issue, placing undue strain on your knee joints.

  3. Previous Injuries: Old injuries, even ones that seem unrelated, can resurface as knee pain due to compensatory movement patterns. For example, if you’ve had an ankle injury, you might be unconsciously putting more stress on your knee.


Common Culprits Behind Knee Pain

In my practice, I often find that knee pain is the “victim” rather than the “culprit.” The real issues often lie elsewhere in the body, such as:


  • Hip Dysfunction: Poor hip stability can cause your knees to compensate during your swing. This compensation can lead to knee pain, especially on the leading leg during the follow-through.

  • Foot Mechanics: If your feet aren’t functioning properly—whether it’s due to flat feet, high arches, or poor control of pronation and supination—your knees will bear the brunt, causing pain over time.

  • Muscle Imbalances: Imbalances in the muscles surrounding the knee, hip, or even the core can lead to improper joint positioning, resulting in knee pain during and after your rounds.


hip knee foot anatomy

What Can You Do About It?

If you’re experiencing knee pain, the good news is that it can often be addressed through targeted rehabilitation and movement strategies. Here’s how:

  1. Address the Root Cause: Instead of just focusing on the knee, it’s essential to evaluate your entire movement pattern. This includes looking at hip stability, foot mechanics, and overall body alignment.

  2. Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS): This approach helps in retraining your body to move more efficiently, ensuring that your knee isn’t taking on excess stress. DNS focuses on achieving a balanced position of the pelvis and ribcage, which allows for optimal movement and reduces knee strain.

  3. Strengthening and Mobility Exercises: Incorporating specific exercises to improve hip and core stability can reduce the strain on your knees. Simple exercises like the 90/90 hip lift or rolling patterns can be very effective.

  4. Swing Mechanics: Working with a golf professional to refine your swing mechanics can also make a big difference. Proper technique reduces the risk of repetitive strain injuries.


Take the First Step Toward a Pain-Free Game


If knee pain is affecting your golf game, don’t wait until it gets worse. The sooner you address the underlying issues, the sooner you can get back to enjoying the sport you love without discomfort.


At Kalamazoo Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, we offer a free discovery consultation to help identify the root cause of your knee pain and develop a personalized treatment plan. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your specific needs, assess your movement patterns, and provide you with a clear path to recovery.

Book Your Free Discovery Call Today

Don’t let knee pain hold you back from playing your best game. Click here to schedule your free discovery consultation to start your journey toward a pain-free golf game. Let’s work together to get you back on the course, swinging freely and enjoying every round.

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