When golfers push for excellence

Although golf is not considered a repetitive sport, the physical act of repeatedly swinging a golf club in practice and on the links can lead to a condition known as hallux limitus, a jamming and deterioration of the big toe joint.

In brief, the movement and weight transfer that occur during the swings follow through can cause this problem and other chronic foot ailments.

When a golfer follows through on his or her swing, that person can overextend the big toe joint on the back foot. Those who have played the game avidly for several years eventually can wear out the cartilage or jam the big toe joint. The likely outcome, if left untreated, is painful arthritis in the big toe.

If you experience pain in the big toe area when playing, you should consider it a warning sign that intervention is necessary before the joint becomes arthritic. In most situations, orthotics can be prescribed to provide relief, but advanced cases may require surgery.

Another common foot problem for golfers is a neuroma or pinched nerve at the bottom of the foot. The weight transfer to the front foot that occurs in the follow through applies pressure that, over time, can cause a nerve to become pinched.

Finally, it’s best not to wear shoes that have a spike located directly under the ball of the foot. The pressure from that single spike, magnified by the several thousand steps taken during an average round, can cause intense pain and swelling in the ball of the foot.

Golfers call Dr. Sherman Nagler for your discomfort. Let’s stay ahead of the curve. Nagler Foot Center 713.529.1010. Lets prolong your game. www.foothouston.com