The bicep is located on the front of your upper arm. The bicep has two tendons, one that connects to the shoulder and the other that connects to the radius bone at the elbow. Returning to the game of golf after a bicep injury may depend on the type of injury and the severity of the injury. Your doctor will tell you when it is safe to return to golf after treatment.
Bicep Tendonitis
Bicep tendonitis is a painful, overuse injury, and golfers are at high risk, reports the Cleveland Clinic. If treated early, when the damage is minimal, you can expect to make a full recovery and return to golf. Treatment includes icing the area to reduce swelling, taking anti-inflammatory medication and rest. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe physical therapy. Surgery may be needed in severe cases to remove the inflamed tissue and to repair any tears.
Elbow Bicep Tendon Tears
Some golfers may experience a tear in the tendon at the elbow. This can be a result of a fall, sudden twist of the elbow or because of an overuse injury. People may experience pain, weakness in the elbow, and difficulty rotating the palm upward and downward. A tendon tear at the elbow is more likely to need surgical repair than a shoulder tear, reports Cleveland Clinic. In some cases, treating the injury with rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medications will heal the injury and you should be able to return to golfing.
Shoulder Bicep Tendon Tears
A tendon tear at the shoulder is a result of an overuse injury, a fall or if you lift something too heavy. You may experience a sudden, sharp pain when the injury occurs, weakness in the shoulder, bruising in the upper arm and difficulty rotating your palm. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, mild cases of shoulder tears can be treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. Severe cases will need surgery to repair the tear. Recovery from surgery will take time, but with proper medical care and rest you should be able to go back to golfing.
Preventing Injuries
Preventing injuries is critical for all athletes. Warming up before and stretching after practice or a golf game may prevent injuries. Because many of these injuries are caused by overuse, it is important to participate in some cross training, such as light weightlifting or cardiovascular activities. Taking time off for an injury is essential to making a full recovery. Always consult with your doctor for medical advice and to determine when you can return to golf.
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