Why can’t I shake this ache?

Article by Dr Larry Callaway

BIO - Specific Chiropractic Center - Dr Callaway Blog

Often times when a golfer is playing a round of golf they will begin to experience some sort of ache.  It is well known that golfers often have low back pain.  Why is that? Where does it come from? Why can’t I get rid of it? Whether it is twitter, facebook, blogs, or face to face those are the type of questions I hear day in and day out.  Since I am a Chiropractor most people say “can’t you just adjust my back and make it go away???”  My answer is usually no I can’t just magically make your lower back improve just like you have been unable to correct it the entire time you have played golf.  I find that there are often multiple underlying issues to a golfers lower back issues. 

I am going to touch on two today.  The first is the most important and I have mentioned again and again.  The nervous system is THE integral part of how the body functions.   It controls every thought, action, movement, and function.  So when it comes to the golf swing it starts in your head, literally.  Make sure your nervous system is working right and your body has a better chance to adapt and therefore less chance of having a low back ache.

The second most important reason for low back pain that is often overlooked is the front of the golfers’ hips.  Now how does a low back ache come from the front of the hips?  These muscles are often very tight and under stretched.  Most golfers stretch their hamstrings, which inherently are weak and loose because the hip flexors are tight.  So, what does the golfer need to do?!?!? Obvious right? Make sure they have warmed up the front of their hips and keep them loose even when not on the course. 

Tip of the day! Keep the hip flexors loose!