In Australia, golfing is a sport and a way of life that captures the country’s love of the outdoors, camaraderie, and team spirit.
Tom, the latest addition to the North West Physio Keperra team, is a dedicated physiotherapist who also happens to be deeply passionate about golf. His professional skills are complemented by his genuine enthusiasm for the sport, making him a valuable asset to our team.
In this article, Tom opens up about his new role and appreciation for golf. He shares some of his incredible golf experiences and points out common injuries golfers face plus how to best manage them. Come along as we tee off into the world of golfing, with Tom as our guide.
Firstly, congrats on your new role at North West Physio Keperra!
What qualifications and skills can you offer patients?
I have a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from Australian Catholic University and have completed a Musculoskeletal Segmental and dry needling course. I’ve also almost completed the Golf TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) course.
What do you love most about working at North West Physio Keperra?
I love working as a physiotherapist because it allows me to enhance people’s lives by improving mobility and managing pain.
The dynamic nature of the job and the satisfaction from seeing positive outcomes make it a truly rewarding experience for me.
What do you love about golf? What does it mean to you personally?
I love golf as it’s both relaxing and challenging. Playing in a peaceful outdoor setting is enjoyable, and the game requires skill and strategy.
Whether playing alone or with friends, golf combines the joy of being outdoors, exercise, and the satisfaction of getting better, making it a sport that I absolutely love.
I personally enjoy the mental challenge of golf. You need focus, smart decision-making, and staying calm under pressure. Figuring out the best way to play each hole and improving your skills takes a lot of thought. When you succeed by making good choices and staying focused, it feels really satisfying.
Do you participate in any golf competitions, or is it more of a hobby/passion?
I play in weekly competitions to improve my handicap, and playing with friends is also fun. Mixing some friendly rounds with a bit of competition makes my overall golf experience more enjoyable and dynamic.
I’ve heard you’ve been caddying for your uncle on a golfing tour. Can you please tell me more about this?
Caddying for my Uncle John Senden on the PGA Champions Tour for three months was an incredible experience. On the golf course, I gained valuable insights into professional play, witnessing firsthand the dynamics of strategy and decision-making.
Off the course, I assisted him in preparing his body for each tournament, recognising the importance of maintaining optimal physical conditions for excellent golf performance.
This experience provided me with valuable lessons learned from our interactions and from the physical therapists on the tour who work with athletes on a weekly basis.
What are some common golf injuries?
Below is a list of common injuries and how they tend to happen while on the course:
Golfer’s Elbow: Inner elbow pain from forearm muscle overuse during the swing.
Tennis Elbow: Outer elbow pain from repetitive wrist and arm motion in the swing.
Back Pain: Strain or injury from the rotational movement in the golf swing.
Rotator Cuff Injuries: Damage to shoulder muscles and tendons from swing motion.
Wrist Injuries: Sprains, strains, or overuse injuries from club impact on the wrist.
Knee Injuries: Strains or damage to ligaments from rotational forces during the swing.
Hip Injuries: Strains or inflammation from the pivoting motion in the golf swing.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Hand and finger pain from repetitive club gripping.
Ankle Injuries: Sprains or strains from uneven terrain or improper weight shift.
If any of the above sports injuries occur, it’s recommended you visit a professional at North West Physio for assessment and treatment to prevent further injury.
What are some benefits of seeing a Physio for golf?
These are just a few of the benefits of seeing a physio:
- Injury Prevention
- Optimising Movement Patterns
- Pain Management
- Enhanced Strength and Conditioning
- Posture and Alignment
What’s a proactive approach to preventing golf injuries?
Physiotherapy goes beyond just treating sports injuries; it can also be used as a proactive method to improve performance and prevent potential issues.
If you’re a golfer with any physical concerns or looking to enhance your physical condition for golf, I advise seeking the help of a physiotherapist.
Golfing Australia: Meet Golfing enthusiast Tom
Tom’s unique perspective as a healthcare professional and an avid golfer in Australia has allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the physical demands of the sport.
Tom highlights the benefits of seeing a physio for common golf injuries as seeing a physio as a proactive approach to injury prevention.
Integrating physiotherapy into a golfer’s routine can lead to a more sustainable and enjoyable experience on the course. Call or book online today to speak to Tom or one of the friendly North West Physio Keperra team.
