Those who love the sport are familiar with back pain from golf. As you can see in the picture, with the extreme rotation, a lot of stress is placed on your spine. Even a casual golfer on a par 3 is taking at least 27 swings, plus practice swings plus warm up swings on the range. You can easily put your spine through 150 high speed extreme ranges of motion on the golf course. Considering that, it is no wonder why you have back pain from golf.
There are several things you can do to avoid back pain from golf. The best advice I have is that the healthier you go into the season, the healthier you will come out of the season. If you have an extra 20 or even 40 lbs hanging of the front of your belly, that isn’t a good way to start the season. It intensifies the pressure placed on your spine during your swing. Though I don’t want to minimize the effort it takes to lose weight, its often the easiest and best way to make your back feel better.
Secondly, to avoid back pain from golf, keep your body loose and limber when you play. While I hate walking a course when it is super hot out, walking the course is much better for your back than driving in a cart. It keeps your muscles warm and active. If you ride in a cart for 18 holes, your body doesn’t ever limber up before your swing and once you are back in the cart, it’s another opportunity for it to stiffen up.
Third, stretch when you are done playing. I know that most people like to have a beer with their buddies when they finish their round. However, spending 3-5 minutes stretching after your round will save you a lot of pain later.
If you do find yourself in pain after a round of golf, schedule an appointment. You can book online at https://www.activefamilychiropractic.com/booking-calendar If we can’t get you in for an appointment right away, please at least ice to keep the inflammation down and walk to keep the mobility. Read here for more tips before your first appointment.