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Why Do Golfers So Often Experience Back Pain? 

Understanding Golf Back Pain - Saratoga Spine - Back Pain from GolfingYes, the reality is that back pain is relatively common among golfers.  It’s estimated that more than a quarter of all golf injuries are back-related. However, it is important to note that most golfers who experience back pain find that the pain occurs over time and not from one moment or one swing of the club.

What You Can Do to Avoid Back Pain from Golfing

Strengthen Core Muscles

Back pain is often avoided by improving your strength and mobility. That is, strengthened muscles can be a counter force protecting against those forces that are created during the golf swing. As an example, if you develop stronger core muscles they can help you to counter the forces at the end of the golf swing that might be directed through the lumbar spine.

Let’s keep in mind that golf’s motions are repetitive and that the repetitive swinging of the golf club is putting strain on the muscles supporting the spine (as well as the spine itself). And that this is usually what is creating lower back pain. When the core muscles are weak instead of the muscles taking the pressure of the golf swing. It is the spine that takes that pressure. If you make your core muscles stronger, you will be protecting your spine.

Develop Overall Flexibility

Of course, stronger core muscles are not the entire answer to a golfer eliminating the possibility of back pain. Achieving overall flexibility in your body is key.  This includes keeping stretched out the hamstrings, shoulders, and neck. When these parts of the body are stiff, if you swing a golf club with any extra force your muscles and tendons will tighten further, often leading to pain.

With stretching it is recommended that you are consistent and aim to take a full-body approach. After all, golf is a whole-body activity and if any part of the body is restricted or limited, the body will shift the distribution of forces to other parts of the body, causing a breakdown in tissues not designed to withstand the additional forces.

Remember, when starting any new physical activity, including stretching out and strengthening your body, proceed cautiously, especially in the beginning. Listen to your body. Usually, it will tell you when you have done enough or reached your current limits.

If you have consistent pain when you play golf, especially though you are doing your stretching and strength training, you may want to consider seeing a back specialist. Often, ignoring the signs and signals of a problem like this leads to more serious issues.

*Please Note: Information on this site or any recommended sites should not be used as a diagnosis or a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.
Blue Distinction Center for Spine Surgery