Arthritis in the hands and fingers is common, particularly among older golfers. It can make gripping the club painful, reduce feel and make cold mornings miserable. But many golfers with hand arthritis keep playing for years with a few changes to their equipment, grip and routine. Here's how.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Follow the guidance of your doctor or physiotherapist.
Equipment changes
Grips
- Larger (midsize or jumbo) grips need less finger closure and squeezing.
- Softer materials cushion the hands.
- Replace worn grips regularly. Read how to regrip golf clubs.
- Putter grips: thicker putter grips reduce wrist and finger action. Read how to choose a putter.
Gloves
- A soft, well-fitting glove adds grip and comfort.
- Gloves on both hands in cold weather.
- Compression or padded gloves suit some golfers. Read our golf gloves guide.
Clubs
- Graphite shafts absorb more vibration than steel.
- Lighter clubs reduce effort.
- Forgiving clubs reduce jarring off-centre hits. Read game improvement vs players' irons.
Grip technique
- Light grip pressure: hold the club only as firmly as needed.
- A baseball (ten-finger) grip can be more comfortable than overlapping or interlocking grips for some golfers. Read how to grip a golf club.
- Avoid squeezing at the top of the swing.
Before and during the round
- Warm your hands: warm water before leaving home, hand warmers, gentle exercises.
- Gentle hand exercises: finger spreads, fist-making and wrist circles.
- Keep hands warm between shots in cold weather. Read winter golf.
- Practise on grass or a soft mat; hard mats jar the hands. Read golf nets and hitting mats.
- Limit practice volume.
Exercises
With your health professional's approval:
- Gentle putty or ball squeezes.
- Finger extensions with a rubber band.
- Range-of-motion exercises for fingers and wrists.
Read grip strength for golf.
Pacing your golf
- Play nine holes on bad days. Read nine-hole golf.
- Use a cart or trolley to save energy.
- Rest between practice sessions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play golf with arthritis in my hands?
Many golfers do, with larger grips, gloves, lighter clubs and good warm-ups.
What grips are best for arthritic hands?
Larger, softer grips that reduce the need to squeeze.
Is a ten-finger grip better for arthritis?
For some golfers, yes. It can be more comfortable than overlapping or interlocking grips.
Should I wear two gloves?
Many golfers with arthritis find two gloves more comfortable, especially in cold weather.
The bottom line
Hand arthritis doesn't have to end your golf. Larger, softer grips, comfortable gloves, lighter clubs, light grip pressure and warm hands can make a big difference. Work with your health professional and pace yourself. For more, read golf for seniors.