Chiropractic care is a standard part of the health care regime of many pro golfers. This is because it offers a solution to one of the fundamental issues of the game – the potential physical problems of the golf swing.
The swing in and of itself isn’t conducive to having a healthy back. This is because to have a good swing you create tension in your spine (to enable you to get good distance) – the tension comes as the hips stop while the shoulders continue to rotate: basically you create a coil from your body, which then uncoils when you start your downswing. Since that’s an awkward movement for your back, many golfers end up with lower back problems.
Regular massage helps muscle flexibility.
Here’s some basic chiropractic advice – remember to listen to your body and do not force it into any position that causes pain:
- Before your game, do some basic stretches – ease into a slow stretch of hamstrings along the back of the legs, and groin area.
- Regular massage will help keep your muscles flexible, and more responsive to deep stretching.
- Hold the ends of a club across the back of your shoulders and lean slowly from left and right.
- Now, from the same position, raise it up, stretching your shoulder muscles.
- Get in a position of where you would be in a swing, and then bend left and right.
- Grab the club backwards – so if you normally swing right-handed, you’d grab it like you’d be swinging left-handed- and take 10 practice swings that way. You’re stretching different muscles, releasing some of the habits formed by body-memory, which will all you loosen up considerably.
- During the winter, work particularly on stretching the muscles of the arms, shoulders and back.
- If your neck is tight gently stretch it a little also, as stiff neck muscles will affect the freedom of rest of the body. Remember, if there’s any pain you should see an expert who can help establish the cause and treatment.
- Golfer’s elbow is a painful condition in which your arm bone becomes sore and tender. Chiropractors can adjust the over-rotated bone.
- Orthodic stabilisers for your shoes can help improve balance so your swing is better. They may also encourage you to walk more.
- Anything that helps with flexibility eventually helps with your game. As you get older, your swing naturally shortens since the muscles aren’t as supple.
- You have to have good balance if you want to hit the golf ball consistently. A healthy spine is paramount to proper balance and posture. Improve your balance and you’ll improve your consistency.
Chiropractors care for your body structure overall, not just the back. So if your muscles are feeling out of sync, chiropractic may be the just the adjustment your body and game needs.
To find a chiropractor near you check out web-based health directories which list local practitioners, or contact the national chiropractor’s association for accredited members.
Remember: this is not medical advice; please consult your medical practitioner before undertaking any new physical health regime.
