Golf season is in full swing, which means it’s time to have a talk about lower back pain. More than perhaps any other sport, golfing has a high rate of spine injuries, even in young people. In fact, the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) of Golf found that over 28% of golfers suffer from lower back pain after every round. If you are coming off the green wincing, here are a few preventative steps you can take. WARM-UPS As with any sport, it’s important to stretch and thoroughly work out your muscles before a game of golf. It can be tempting to just head out and start swinging, but neglecting to stretch is the most surefire way to leave you clutching your back. Instead, take the time to stretch your shoulders, torso, Tips to Keep Golfers Golfing
hips, and hamstrings before your first swing. Taking a few light practice shots on the driving range is also not a bad idea. PROPER SWING POSTURE No one likes having their swing criticized, but the truth is that many people internalize some key posture mistakes that place undue force on the hips and lower back. The most common mistake we see is golfers setting up with their tail hip higher than their lead hip. Instead, you want your hips to be neutral or the lead hip to be high and the lead shoulder to be low. This will keep tension off your
that bending over and lifting would be exhausting on its own if you weren’t already putting stress on your spine.
This is why you should
Sudoku seriously consider getting an integrated bag with a built-in stand. Also, if you carry your own bag, use one with dual straps to evenly distribute the weight. Of course, if range of motion issues or chronic pain are keeping you on your back and off the back nine, a trained physical therapist can help. We have our fair share of golf lovers here at the clinic, and we would love to give you more specific tips to improve your stance while keeping pain at bay.
spine on the backswing. BRING THE RIGHT GEAR
The need to constantly pick up and put down your golf bag can also play a role in lower back pain. All
Watermelon Cucumber Skewers
Skewers are a Fourth of July favorite, but these are not your classic kebabs. They’re a fresh, light, and fun way to start a barbecue. Oh, and they don’t require any actual cooking.
INGREDIENTS • 1 medium-sized
• 1 bunch fresh mint leaves • Salt, to taste
watermelon, cubed • 2 cucumbers, cut into 1/4- inch rounds • 1 block feta cheese, cubed
Equipment • 1 packet of bamboo skewers
DIRECTIONS 1. Assemble skewers by placing one watermelon cube, one cucumber round, one feta cube, and one mint leaf on skewer in that order. Repeat until skewer is full. 2. Lightly season with salt and chill in fridge until right before serving.
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