Golf Preparation & Prevention

The recent boom in the popularity of golf has had an unfortunate, but predictable consequence.... an increase in golf swing related injuries. Statistically 85% of these injuries are related to the spine. With an office in close proximity to a golf course, the spring and summer annually brings a plethora of swing related injuries to our clinic. Many of the patients we treat have the same problems that return on a seemingly annual basis. The question arises.. ..why do golf injuries occur and can they be prevented?

From a biomechanics perspective, 3 major causes of injury can be identified:

1. Lack of dynamic of flexibility,
2. Lack of muscular conditioning and
3. Poor swing technique. Most individuals spend the majority of their effort on fixing poor swing technique without concern for strength and flexibility.

This is a recipe for trouble in regards to both injury and lowering your handicap. The golf swing is in theory the most powerful movement in all sports and requires a well tuned body to accelerate and decelerate the forces that are generated.

Lack of dynamic flexibility is more complicated than simply not being able to touch your toes.-It can be subdivided into 2 categories: muscular restriction and joint restriction. Simply defined, this means restricted movement from either a joint or muscle. Tight muscles are commonplace. Stretching is essential for a normal swing and should accompany each round of golf both before and after- Joint restriction or dysfunction can cause abnormal swing motion and typically runs in conjunction with decreased flexibility. Joint dysfunction should be evaluated by a chiropractor or other doctor who specializes in physical medicine. Although not as easy to evaluate, joint dysfunction is as equally deleterious to the swing as lack of muscular flexibility.
An increasing number of golfers are utilizing strength training to enhance there golf game and prevent injuries. Traditional weight training has been shown to have little, if any, positive effects on both the prevention of injury and lowering your handicap. Because golf is such a complex sport, it requires specific training that simulates the movements involved in the sport. Proper weight training for golf involves complex multijoint lifts that are more focused on training movements, not specific muscles. I would highly recommend seeking instruction from qualified professional if you intend to begin training specifically for golf. It will save you time and decrease your risk of injury.

Poor swing technique can not only hurt your handicap, but can hurt your back as well. If your swing is not altered by any of the previously mentioned factors then the old adage of "practice makes perfect" applies. The golf swing is perhaps the most difficult movement in all of sports, and it takes time to master. Again, I would recommend that a professional evaluates your swing. The small amount of money that it will cost you for golf lessons will pay large dividends.

A quick glance at the life of some the PGA and LPGA tour professionals illustrates the demands involved in golfing at a high level, and the potential risks. Fifty percent have suffered time lost on the tour due to back related injuries. 80% of the current PGA tour professionals have sought treatment with a chiropractor. High level fitness and flexibility training has become just as mandatory to success in golf as in other pro sports such as football, basketball, or hockey. The popularity of golf and the potential money to be made has pushed the envelope for injury prevention, treatment and overall performance,

Take some time this spring and summer to evaluate your golf game. If you have a new or recurrent injury, the solution may be simpler than you think. Get evaluated by a qualified professional that can identify the underlying cause. The likelihood is that you will not only feel better, but will play better as well.

Good luck.