Video: Are the yips just nerves or something more?
Medical Xpress
February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The yips—a mysterious condition that causes involuntary twitches or jerks during critical moments on the golf course—have long been a source of frustration for players. Mayo Clinic researchers have now identified a potential neurological basis for this phenomenon, offering new insights into why some individuals experience it more severely than others. This breakthrough could help golfers better understand and manage their condition, potentially improving their performance and confidence on the green.
The yips are often dismissed as mere nerves or a lack of focus, but the Mayo Clinic study suggests they may stem from an underlying neurological issue. Researchers observed that some golfers with the yips exhibited abnormal brain activity in areas responsible for motor control and stress response. This finding aligns with previous studies linking movement disorders to neurological factors, indicating that the yips might not be purely psychological after all.
For many golfers, especially at higher skill levels, the yips can significantly impact performance during crucial moments. Understanding their potential neurological origins is a major step forward in addressing this issue. The research not only sheds light on why some individuals are more prone to the yips but also opens doors for future treatments or strategies to mitigate them.
This discovery matters because it bridges the gap between sports performance and neuroscience, offering golfers and medical professionals alike a deeper understanding of how neurological factors can influence physical actions. For anyone dealing with unexplained muscle twitches or movement issues, this research highlights the importance of considering underlying neurological causes. By addressing these root causes, individuals may find more effective ways to manage their symptoms and achieve better outcomes in their sport or daily activities.
Ultimately, the Mayo Clinic's findings remind us that even seemingly minor physical challenges can have significant neurological underpinnings. This knowledge could lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapies not just for golfers with the yips but for individuals dealing with other movement-related conditions as well.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/15/2026