Issue 29.09
Many avid golfers contort their bodies into oddly twisted postures, generating a great deal of torque. Couple this motion with a bent-over stance, repeat 120 times over three or four hours, add the fatigue that comes with several miles of walking, and you’ve got a good workout – and a recipe for potential lower-back trouble.
“Most golfers go until they get hurt, then look for help,” says Dr. Peterson, a local sports chiropractor. “Back pain is a warning sign that there is an underlying problem responsible for a symptom that will likely get worse. Doctors of chiropractic look for the cause of the symptom and help reduce the likelihood of future injury.”
If you take the chiropractic approach, you’re in good company. Tiger Woods says that lifting weights and visiting his chiropractor regularly have made him a better golfer. Dr. Peterson suggests these simple measures to help you avoid back pain or injury and improve your game:
Purchase equipment that fits. Don’t try to adapt your swing to the wrong clubs.
If you show some signs of arthritis in the hands, consider a larger, more specialized grip for added safety and performance.
Take lessons. Learning proper swing technique is critical.
Avoid metal spikes. They increase stress on the back. Soft shoes or soft spikes allow for greater motion.
Warm up before each round. Take a brisk walk to get blood flowing to the muscles; then do a set of stretches.
Pull don’t carry, your golf bag. If you prefer to ride in a cart, alternate riding and walking every other hole – bouncing around in a cart can also be hard on the spine.
Keep your entire body involved. Every third hole, take a few practice swings with the opposite hand to keep your muscles balanced and even out stress on the back.
Take the “drop.” One bad swing – striking a root or a rock with your club – can damage a wrist. If unsure whether you can get a clean swing, take the drop.
Doctors at Advanced Spine and Rehabilitation have specialized training in sports medicine and can provide options for golfers with back pain as well as other health concerns, such as shoulder, knee, arm and wrist pain that could affect your game. A large portion of their base includes satisfied Medicare patients. Call us if you have any questions at 435-656-3266 or visit our website for more info – www.StGeorgePainRelief.com.