Back To Golf
(NC)-It's true that many golfers suffer from back pain. If
you are one of them but love the game, you can have it both
ways. It just takes some practice and patience.
Trunk rotation - at least the lack of it - is the most
common problem for golfers who are prone to back pain. The
more skilled and flexible you are, the more you can rely on
your hips and trunk to rotate when you swing. This is the
crux of the matter. A great golf shot requires hip and trunk
rotation because that's what gives power to your shots. If
you don't rotate well, your arms - and especially your back
- will have to do a lot of extra work.
If you're a seasonal golfer it's normal to experience some
aches and pains during the first few rounds of play. Here
are some basic tips for the beginning of the season in
particular... although you should keep them in mind whenever
you play.
Walk the course when possible; a golf bag which you can wear
backpack style distributes the weight far better than one
which you sling over your shoulder. (Bouncing around in a
golf cart can make back pain a lot worse. Riding also allows
your body to cool down and tighten up between holes.)
Take extra time to stretch and warm up before you begin to
play.
Take practice swings throughout the round to keep your
muscles warm and limber.
Limit your time on the driving range - some of the most
common injuries are caused by overuse of muscles.
Talk to your golf pro. He/she can show you how to make some
mechanical adjustments to your swing that will put less
stress on your back.
If your back hurts, take a few days off from the course . .
. but try to maintain some level of physical activity. Check
with your doctor, of course, but these days most health care
professionals who deal with back pain do not recommend long
term bedrest.
Always bend your knees to tee your ball, replace divots, fix
ball marks and lift a heavy golf bag because bending
incorrectly dozens of times adds up.
Strength, flexibility and endurance are the three most
important things to keep in mind, especially if you are a
chronic back pain sufferer.
If you suffer from back pain, a regular exercise program is
a must. For more information as well as exercises designed
specifically for golfers, visit
www.backrelief.com.
