Top Golf Foot Injuries and How to Prevent Pain | Midwest Podiatry Centers – Minneapolis-St. Paul

Keep Your Game Strong: Golf and Foot Health in Minnesota

Golf is a relaxing, low-impact sport—but don’t let its leisurely pace fool you. Walking 18 holes, swinging hundreds of times, and wearing less-than-ideal footwear can all add up to serious foot problems. For Minnesota golfers, changing seasons and course conditions—from soggy spring turf to dry, firm summer fairways—can put extra strain on your feet.

At Midwest Podiatry Centers, we help golfers stay on the course and out of pain. Here’s what you need to know about foot health and your golf game.

Common Foot Problems That Can Hurt Your Golf Game

Golf requires endurance, balance, and repetitive movement—all of which place stress on your feet. Here are some of the most frequent foot issues we see in golfers:

• Plantar Fasciitis:This heel pain results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports your arch. It’s often caused by repeated impact from walking and poor arch support.
• Metatarsalgia: Pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot can stem from frequent shifting of weight during the golf swing, especially if you favor one side.
• Ankle Sprains: Uneven fairways, sand traps, or unexpected slopes can lead to rolled ankles, especially without proper foot support.
• Neuromas: Nerve pain or a “pebble in your shoe” sensation in the forefoot is often caused by compression from tight golf shoes or repeated pressure during your stance and swing.
• Toenail Problems: Black toenails, fungal infections, or thickened nails can develop due to moisture, heat, and tight-fitting shoes on long walks.

The Best Golf Shoes for Foot Support in Minnesota

Footwear can make or break your round. Minnesota’s climate throws in unique challenges, so here’s what to look for when choosing golf shoes:

Features to Prioritize:

• Arch Support & Cushioning: Essential for reducing fatigue during long rounds.
• Waterproof Materials: Protect your feet on damp spring or fall courses.
• Breathability: Keeps your feet cool and dry on hot summer afternoons.
• Spiked vs. Spikeless: Spiked shoes provide better traction but may increase pressure points. Spikeless options offer comfort but might not grip as well on wet or hilly terrain.

Top Brands for Foot Support:

• FootJoy: Known for stability and waterproof performance.
• ECCO: Offers excellent cushioning and high-quality leather options.
• Adidas: Athletic-inspired designs with arch support and breathability.
• New Balance: Golf shoes built with orthopedic footbeds and extra-wide sizes for comfort.

Pro Tip: Rotate between two pairs of golf shoes to extend their life and maintain support.

How to Prevent Foot Pain While Golfing

Golfers often walk four to six miles in a single round. These tips can help protect your feet every step of the way:

• Custom Orthotics: Designed to match your unique arch and foot shape, custom orthotics relieve stress on the heel and forefoot. They also improve stability during your golf swing, although we can’t guarantee fewer divots or mulligans! At Midwest Podiatry Centers, our orthotic labs even offer special modifications for golf shoes, which can be tricky to fit and are often tight in the toe box. Our team ensures a comfortable, performance-enhancing fit so your focus stays on the fairway, not your feet.
• Stretch Your Feet and Ankles: Warm-up stretches like toe curls and ankle rolls can improve flexibility and reduce injury risk.
• Choose the Right Socks: Moisture-wicking socks reduce the chance of blisters and fungal infections.
• Use a Cart When Necessary: Walking is great for exercise, but if your feet are in pain, don’t hesitate to ride.
• Replace Worn Golf Shoes: If your shoes are visibly worn or the insoles feel flat, it’s time to upgrade.

When to See Our Podiatrists for Golf-Related Foot Pain

Not all foot pain is just “part of the game.” If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to schedule a consultation:

• Heel pain that lingers more than two weeks after playing
• Sharp, pinpoint pain in the ball of your foot
• Black, thickened, or painful toenails after wearing golf shoes
• Swollen or unstable ankles, especially after playing uneven courses

Midwest Podiatry Centers can diagnose and treat your condition early, before it interferes with your swing or sidelines you for the season.

Don’t Let Foot Pain Ruin Your Golf Game – Schedule with Midwest Podiatry

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a regular at your local country club, healthy feet are key to a strong, comfortable golf game. From custom orthotics to injury prevention and treatment, Midwest Podiatry Centers is here to help you stay on course, pain-free. Call us today to schedule your appointment or request a consultation online.