Golf-related lower back injuries

Injuries to the lumbar region (lower back) are the most frequently suffered injuries among golfers.

The possible causes are many:

• pre-existing stiffness at certain joints in your back;
• a lack of flexibility;
• poor technique;
• ill-fitting equipment; or
• insufficient warm-up.

Warning signs of an eventual problem may include pain and stiffness which can occur either during or following your game.

There are many potential sources of the pain including the muscles, or the disc or facet joints located between the vertebrae. It is common for facet-joint problems to occur with sudden movements involving strong forces or excessive movements such as twisting or bending. Often the pain is sudden and sharp in nature but can also occur in the hours following the injury.

Disc injuries can also provide immediate pain but often produce post-activity discomfort. The pain can often start in the lower back and, depending on the severity of the injury, radiate progressively down the leg. Other signs indicating a possible disc injury include pain when coughing, significant morning pain and numbness or tingling in the leg. As you can see, there are many potential causes and overlaps in symptoms—to be sure, you should always seek the opinion of your doctor or physiotherapist.

It is important to remember that the cause of the problem may not be directly related to your game. For example, earlier activities such as working in a position where your back was bent or twisted, or slouching in your chair for prolonged periods can predispose you to an eventual problem. Furthermore, it is important to remember that lower-back problems can be the result of cumulative stress. For example, picking up your ball or golf bag by always bending at the lower back or prolonged carrying of your bag can be lead to repetitive strain. To minimize this, follow these tips:

• Picking up the ball : The best way is to squat down by bending your knees or using the golfers lift by counterbalancing while lifting your leg back.
• When taking the golf bag from the car or picking it up from the ground : Use your legs and both hands to pick it up. Try to keep the bag close to your body.
• Carrying the bag : if possible use a caddy or buggy and try to keep the bag as light as possible. If you must carry the bag, always alternate the shoulders you use to even out the strain on both sides.

It's important to remember that many injuries are not related to a single event and that proper back care on and off the course is one of the best ways to prevent injuries, especially as you get older. The prevention of these injuries involves stretching and strengthening the back and abdominal muscles, a proper warm up and, if possible, tips from a golf professional to improve your technique.