Common Shoulder Injuries in Golf and Cricket

The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, making it essential for both golf and cricket. Whether you’re generating power through a golf swing or repeatedly throwing, bowling, or fielding in cricket, the shoulder is exposed to significant stress. Without good technique, strength, and recovery, injuries can quickly develop.

Shoulder Injuries in Golf

Although golf is often considered a low-impact sport, repetitive swings place considerable strain on the shoulder—particularly the lead shoulder (left shoulder in right-handed golfers). Common injuries include:

• Rotator cuff tendinopathy – Overuse of the shoulder muscles and tendons can cause pain, weakness, and difficulty lifting the arm.
• Shoulder impingement – Repetitive overhead and rotational movements can cause tendons to become compressed, resulting in pain during the swing.
• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint irritation – Stress through the top of the shoulder during the follow-through can lead to inflammation and discomfort. (PubMed Central (PMC))

Shoulder Injuries in Cricket

Cricket players, particularly bowlers and fielders, place high demands on the shoulder through repetitive overhead throwing and bowling actions. The most common injuries include:

• Rotator cuff tendinopathy – Repetitive throwing can overload the rotator cuff, leading to pain and reduced performance.
• Shoulder impingement – Inflamed tendons become trapped during overhead movement, causing pain and restricted movement.
• Labral (SLAP) injuries – Repetitive throwing can damage the cartilage around the shoulder socket, resulting in pain, instability, and reduced throwing power. (NSMI)

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Many shoulder injuries are preventable with the right approach. Regular strengthening of the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles, maintaining good flexibility, warming up properly, and avoiding sudden increases in training volume can all reduce injury risk. Good technique and adequate recovery are equally important.

When Should You Seek Help?

If shoulder pain persists for more than a few days, affects your performance, or limits everyday activities, it’s worth having it assessed early. Prompt diagnosis and targeted rehabilitation can prevent a minor issue from becoming a long-term problem and help you return to your sport safely.

At Momentum Sports Injury Clinic, we specialise in assessing and treating sports-related shoulder injuries. Whether you’re a weekend golfer, club cricketer, or elite athlete, our personalised rehabilitation programmes are designed to relieve pain, restore strength, and get you back to performing at your best.