Doctors have warned golfers who use titanium drivers that they should use earplugs to protect against hearing loss. “What we’ve found is thin-faced clubs produce noise loud enough to damage hearing,” says Dr. Malcolm Buchanan, an ear, nose and throat specialist, who with his colleagues at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital reported their findings in the British Medical Journal.
Researchers analyzed the case of a 55-year- old man who entered an out-patient clinic with tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and reduced hearing in one of his ears. The man had been playing golf three times a week for 18 months using the titanium drivers. He told doctors that the sound of the clubface striking the ball was similar to the sound of a gun going off.
Researchers concluded that the study presents anecdotal evidence that caution should be taken by golfers who play regularly and use titanium drivers. We at Advanced Hearing Care have many patients who are golfers. We encourage you to call for an appointment to see if your hearing aids are adjusted to protect against loud “impacting” noise, and inquire about our customized ear protection. Fore!