We all know that golf is not a contact sport, but that doesn't mean we can't hurt ourselves while playing it. I would imagine that many (if not most) long-time players have had back pain due to playing at some time or another. I know I have!
For me, personally, my adventures with back pain were caused by not warming up properly before taking that first big swing. This is why it's important to do some stretching before you begin play. Cold muscles do not like being twisted, which is exactly what happens when you swing that club.
If you have back pain often while playing, you should visit a doctor before it gets any worse, and it truly might do just that. You may have a stress fracture or you may need to use a brace in the future. Chronic back pain needs professional assessments.
For other players, one of the best avenues for finding good stretching activities is the Internet. There are literally dozens upon dozens of good, reliable sources to help you get the most effective warm up before play. But do keep in mind that you (the individual) will determine the proper warm up. What I mean by that is that older players will need a warm up that is less strenous than one designed for younger players. One warm up activity will not fit all players. You need to determine which is best for you and stick to that one.
Your overall level of flexibility is another issue that should not be ignored. Flexibility and range of motion go hand-in-hand, and range of motion is a key element to hitting your best shots. If your arms or shoulders or neck are stiff, you will not be able to flow through the shot fully, thus reducing your distance and perhaps causing injury to yourself.
For best results, flexibility exercises should be done not just at the course before play but also at home. You can find a good regime to follow on the Internet or at the library and most of these can be completed within a half-hour or so.
Keeping your muscles and joints (especially the back muscles) loose and fit will help considerably in avoiding back pain associated with playing golf.
However, if your back pain is chronic or if it's severe see a doctor asap. You may have done more damage to yourself than you realize. |
