Prevent Shoulder Impingement in Your Golf Swing

Learn how to prevent left shoulder impingement in your golf swing with effective tips from Chuck Quinton.

Watch the full 9-minute video lesson

Understanding Shoulder Impingement in Golf

Shoulder impingement is one of the most common injuries that golfers face, particularly left shoulder impingement for right-handed players. It can cause chronic pain and lead to missed rounds or even seasons of golf. In this article, we will explore how to prevent this debilitating injury by applying key concepts from the rotary swing methodology.

The Importance of Injury Prevention

In my 20+ years of teaching golf, I have seen countless players suffer from preventable injuries due to incorrect swing techniques. At RotarySwing.com, we prioritize injury prevention, and our medical panel, comprised of orthopedic and neurosurgeons, has helped shape our approach to ensure golfers can swing safely and effectively.

Pushing vs. Pulling: The Key Concept

One of the most transformative concepts in the rotary swing methodology is the idea of pushing versus pulling. All movements in a golf swing can be categorized as either a push or a pull, and understanding this distinction is crucial for maintaining proper swing mechanics and avoiding injuries.

When golfers push their left shoulder across their chest during the swing, they inadvertently cause their body to move off-center. This push creates tension in the subacromial space—the area between the clavicle and humerus—leading to impingement and potential injury.

Why Pushing is Problematic

When you push your left shoulder, your head and spine will often move off-center, leading to a less effective swing. The common advice to push the left shoulder under the chin is flawed; it restricts your shoulder turn and can cause the left shoulder to feel “loaded” incorrectly. This improper positioning can lead to bone spurs and the need for surgery over time.

The Solution: Pulling

Instead of pushing the left shoulder, golfers should focus on pulling the right shoulder behind the head. This movement helps maintain a centered head position and opens up the chest, allowing for a full shoulder turn without impingement. The right shoulder pull keeps the left arm free, reducing the risk of injury while improving swing efficiency.

Practical Application of Pushing vs. Pulling

To visualize this concept more clearly, consider the analogy of a truck pulling a trailer versus pushing it. When a truck pulls a trailer, it moves in a straight line effortlessly. However, pushing a trailer often leads to misalignment and control issues. The same principle applies to your golf swing: pulling keeps the motion aligned and effective.

Applying This to Your Swing

As you practice your takeaway and backswing, focus on pulling your right shoulder back rather than pushing your left shoulder across your chest. This shift in focus not only prevents shoulder impingement but also promotes a more powerful and consistent swing.

Conclusion

Injuries like shoulder impingement can significantly impact your golf game, but they are largely preventable with the right techniques. By understanding the difference between pushing and pulling in your swing, you can maintain proper mechanics and keep yourself on the course longer.

Key Takeaways

Pushing your left shoulder across your chest can lead to shoulder impingement.
Pulling your right shoulder back helps maintain a centered position and prevents injury.
Proper mechanics are essential for a powerful and effective golf swing.
Incorporate the pushing versus pulling concept into your practice to enhance performance.
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