Luxembourg Family & Sports Chiropractic

THE GOLFER'S EDGE

If it's right for Tiger Woods, chances are it's right for you

It's no wonder golfers suffer a lot of back pain. Picture the contortions a golfer's spine goes through during each and every shot. First, he or she asks it to bend really far in one direction for the backswing; then, after hesitating for a second, the golfer's back must suddenly change direction, forcefully twist and bend through the downswing, absorb the impact of the golf club hitting an inanimate object, and then continue twisting for the follow-through. This crazy maneuver is then repeated about 70 times (or 180, as the case may be) per game.

Such movement would be hard on even the fittest athlete. That problem is compounded when you consider most golfers are strictly weekend players, mixing this intense activity with long periods of idleness that leave their muscles weak, tight and prone to injury. (This can occur even if the golfer is active in other sports, as the demands on muscles often differ for different activities.) Then, each time the weekend golfer returns to the links and forces these weak or tight muscles into action, it can put excessive stress on the spine and spinal joints resulting in poor spinal joint mechanics. This can decrease power, as well as speed, hand-eye coordination and consistency.

Many golfers could benefit from chiropractic spinal adjustments; which correct spinal deviations and muscle imbalances. Tiger Woods, who recently became the youngest golfer to ever win the sport's Grand Slam, has said that chiropractic treatments are as important to him as practicing his swing. Not only can chiropractic care decrease the pain associated with extreme activity followed by inactivity, but it can also improve a golfer's range of motion and swing. In fact, golfers could be doing themselves a disservice by not getting their backs cared for.

Chiropractors can also make nutritional and exercise recommendations to help golfers prevent back problems and maintain good spinal health. For instance, rehabilitation exercises promote speedier recovery and warm-up exercises can be beneficial before each game. Certain exercises will also help golfers strengthen abdominal muscles to reduce strain on the back muscles. Recent chiropractic research has found that using a shorter backswing cuts down on stress on the lumbar spine and, if done properly, can be just as effective in achieving maximum clubhead speed (a measure of how far the ball is hit).

Chiropractors can also recommend healthy ways to reduce inflammation, so that golfers can avoid over-the-counter painkillers such as ASA or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can be harsh on the stomach and can even cause gastrointestinal ulceration. Instead, some foods and natural supplements can provide anti-inflammatory action, while improving overall health. Dark green and other colourful vegetables, for example, are sources of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, bioflavonoids and other phytochemicals. In addition, supplementing the diet with omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, ginger, turmeric, boswellia and bromelain can further help decrease swelling around the spine.

While chiropractic care can be beneficial in maintaining overall back health, sometimes golf-related injuries cannot be avoided. That is why chiropractors have been urging their golfing patients to reduce spinal rotation during the backswing to lessen the change of torsional injury.

GETTING YOUR BACK IN SHAPE FOR GOLF

Here are some tips to prevent back, shoulder, and neck pain from interfering with your game:

1. Always warm up. A few stretches and a brisk walk can help loosen your muscles and prevent injury.
2. Use the right equipment. Clubs that are too short or too long can cause problems for your back.
3. Wear soft spikes on your shoes. They are easier on the course, and provide cushioning for your back.
4. Use a pull cart. This is easier on your back than carrying your clubs.
5. Take a lesson. Learn proper swing technique. A poor swing can cause long-term damage to your back.
6. Swing the other way. After every few holes, take a couple of practice swings the "wrong way". If you swing right-handed, take a couple of swings left handed and vice-versa.

Whether you are a pro, or just wish you were, taking good care of your back can help improve your score, and ensure a long enjoyable season on the links.

If you have back pain that persists after golfing, see your chiropractor. Book a chiropractic check-up to make sure your back is in the best possible shape for a fun, active summer.