Dr. Gregory
Kolwaite |
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Pointers to help golfers prevent repetitive injury
Question:
Do you have any tips for golfers who have back problems?
Answer:
Golfers who have back problems constitute a large percentage of the golfing population and it's no wonder when you think about the forces generated during the golf swing, which starts with the golfer in a flexed position, bending at the waist.
The backswing starts with arms swinging around the torso, which in turn wraps the torso around the hips.
This action creates tremendous torque in the back and hip area. Completion of the backswing stores tremendous potential energy, which is released in the downswing when the hips unwind, releasing the torso, which swings the arms down and through the ball. After the ball is struck, momentum carries the arms back up and creates more twist into the lower back and torso, this time in the other direction.
Repetition of the golf swing over and over can cause injuries to the spine as well as the hips, shoulders and neck area.
Here are some steps to prevent or lessen golf injuries:
1. Never start a round of golf "cold."
Arrive at the course early enough to warm up properly before playing.
2. Warm up by taking slow practice swings with a single club.
After a couple of minutes add two more clubs and swing them slowly. The extra weight of three clubs will help loosen up the "golf" muscles.
3. After hitting a shot on the course or driving range, take one swing in the opposite direction.
If you are right-handed, swing like a left-handed golfer. Don't actually hit a ball, just take a swing. This action works muscles on both sides of the body, compensating for the one-sided nature of the golf swing.
4. A regular exercise regimen can help keep "golf" muscles and their supporting structures strong, loose and injury-free.
5. Regular chiropractic checkups keep the spine aligned and flexible enough to better withstand the stresses of the golf swing whether you have a back injury or not.
Dr. Gregory Kolwaite, whose column appears monthly in the Observer-Dispatch, operates Adirondack Chiropractic at 4947 Commercial Drive, Yorkville 13495. If you have a question, you can write to him at his office at www.adirondackchiro.com or call 768-7578. |
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