Golfing Without Back Pain
By Donna Stark
For both men and women, a relaxing game of golf is the perfect way to share some fun with friends, but for some people, that fun can end as quickly as it began if they don't take the proper precautions. Lower back pain is a frequent and common complaint from golfers of all levels. It can happen as a result of playing too much but it can also happen as a result of not playing enough. Confused? Well, keep reading ... you'll see what I am talking about!
The Everyday Golfer
There are a variety of reasons why a serious and frequent golfer could experience back pain as a result of all their time on the course. Take a look at a few of them below.
- Repetitive motions can lead to inflammation or muscle strain
- Excessive or abnormal stress placed on the spine can cause injury to the discs
- Overuse can cause the spinal joints to become arthritic
The Monthly Golfer
For those once-a-month players looking for scientific validation to play even more, here you go! Check out a couple of the reasons why it might be beneficial to head on over to your favorite course more often.
- Not playing enough can encourage improper form and technique
- Good stretching habits may be forgotten about with infrequent play
- Poor endurance from lack of consistent play can lead to a tired swing and injury
Avoiding Back Pain on the Course
Back pain is the worst when all you want to do is to play a round of golf, but don't worry! There are plenty of steps you can take to reduce your risk of back pain on the course, no matter what level you are at.
- Play to your ability - Adapt your swing, your thinking, and your approach to the game if you are in pain or dealing with certain medical conditions.
- Warm up - Don't forget to warm up before your game. Go for a short walk, take some practice swings, and stretch before you take that first official shot.
- Take lessons - Learning the proper form and technique from a professional can go a long way, not only in your game but also with the health of your spine, so invest in some lessons. It will be worth it!
- Exercise daily - It's important to stay physically fit so that you can maintain your endurance and your strength during your game. In addition, daily exercise can also help reduce some of the pain you are feeling too!
Playing Pain-Free
Don't let your back pain keep you from enjoying a round of golf with your friends! Take the necessary precautions to maintain your safety and head to the course with confidence!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Jacksonville, Fla.