12 TALKBACK SELF HELP
Golf is a favourite pastime for many across the nation. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, it’s important to check your swing to avoid unnecessary injury, says the British Chiropractic Association.
TALKBACK l AUTUMN 2019
Avoid back and neck ACHES and pains can make 18 holes seem like 108, and make every swing feel like an arduous and painful task. It can, of course, have a negative impact on the quality of your game and score. Poor technique, inadequate warm up before playing and carrying heavy golf bags are the main causes of injury, particularly to a player’s back or wrist. But these simple tips can help keep your swing feeling great.
Pressure points The lower back, neck and wrists are the most obvious joints at risk for golfers through the repetitive nature of the golf swing. But carrying a golf bag can also place a strain on your neck and put extra stress on your spine, leading to extra lactic acid build-up in your muscles and fatigue. When you’re fatigued, you’re more prone to injuries – not to mention a poorer performance! Take advantage of the latest golf accessories
designed to help, such as lighter bags and dual harness straps over shoulders to distribute the weight. If you’re using a golf cart, push it in front of you rather than pulling it behind as there is less twist through your spine.
Warm up Golfers often don’t warm up at all before playing. If muscles are not prepared by a good stretching routine, it can lead to a lack of flexibility and injury. The lower back is often the victim of reduced mobility in other areas
