The key to golf longevity is having a strong back. Back injuries can ruin your golf score, and possibly keep you off the course. To a dedicated golfer, this can be worse then losing big on the stock market!
The spine consists of 24 bones which are separated by a soft tissue made of cartilage. When the spine is healthy, it is capable of handling tremendous stress. When the spinal bones move out of place, they put stress on the spinal nerves. This can cause pain, weakness, numbness, etc.
The golf swing involves flexing and twisting of the spine. Golfers must consider themselves athletes, and train using up to date training programs. One survey showed that 53% of professional golfers play while injured. While 53% of male recreational golfers suffered from back pain. If you play golf along with other sports you’re 40% more likely to develop back pain then those that just play golf.
Golfers use 90% of their maximum muscular activity when driving a golf ball. This is performed about 40 times per game. This level of maximum exertion puts golf on the same level with football, wrestling and martial arts.
Chiropractors are experts of the spine, and nervous system. In my clinic we treat many golfers, for various types of injuries. The most common complaint is low back pain. Low back injuries do not allow golfers to get into the proper position to address the golf ball. This in turn sets up the golfer for failure, and leads to many other injuries.
“The perfect golf swing provides you with a maximum, consistent performance while minimizing the physical stress on the body.”
Dr. Bob,
ReplyDeleteWhat a ton of great information. You are obviously an expert at your craft.
-Bobby B