BACK to the basics

Article by Dr Larry Callaway

 

 

As I was working with one of my clients this morning I decided to go back to the basics with him.  I decided this for two reasons the first was he reinjured himself and two I needed to educate a few points again.  So I am going back to the basics.

  1. The nervous system is the controller of all body function.  The brain and body have to communicate for proper movement, proprioception, pain, relief, and on. 
    1. Golf Swing à Is a coordinated and delicate movement that requires the body and brain to be in tune.
    2. Pain à Occurs when an event creates a combination of chemicals and nerve firing that tells the brain to relax or tighten the muscles around an area to “protect itself.”
  2. The body is dynamic and needs to move correctly in all its parts to have an optimal swing.
    1. Base of head into top of neck.  This area is called the Upper Cervical Complex and it is responsible for various aspects of movement which is often overlooked.
      1. Textbook movement of this area is rotation
      2. Secondary movements include nodding head
      3. Most importantly if this area is not moving it is analogous to a 12 pound bowling ball being held in place by a six year.  Possible but not ideal.  If this area is not moving properly it influences the entire person
  3. Work to the point of pain not through the point of pain.  I am not sure which of my mentors or professors told me this but it is one of the most fundamental aspects of returning to play.
  4. Body movements from above down
    1. Be sure your “head is on straight”
    2. Be sure your shoulders move and are stable
      1. Movements include Flexion, Extension, Internal and External rotation, abduction and adduction.
    3. Torso rotation should be able to be complete independently of pelvic movement
    4. Pelvic Tilt
    5. Pelvic Rotation should be able to be performed without torso movement
    6. Ankle flexibility and stability
    7. I know there are several more body parts but these 6 are a great starting place with an emphasis on the biomechanics of the upper cervical spine complex.

So when in doubt with your golf fitness routine, conditioning, rehabilitation, and improvement, go BACK to the basics.