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Help Your Spine and Your Golf
Score
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There are an estimated 25
million golfers in the United States, and with the recent surge in the sport's
popularity, that figure should exceed 27 million by the end of the year. It is
also estimated that more than 50% of people who golf regularly will develop
chronic low-back problems at some point in their lives.
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You're probably familiar with the
modern golf swing -- it emphasizes an exaggerated backswing and follow-through.
Amateur golfers are routinely taught that rotation of the body (at the hips) is
needed to maximize club-head velocity and hitting distance. However, studies
have demonstrated that a shorter, more compact swinging motion is not only much
more effective, but also generates far less potential for spinal
injury.
Golf injuries are surprisingly
common considering the non-contact nature of the game. Ask your chiropractor
about the specifics of a more appropriate golf swing, and get the facts on how
an improper swing can place unnecessary stress on your low back and spine. Following your chiropractor's advice can help you avoid
injury... and it may even make you a better golfer.
Reference:
Seaman DR. Back pain in
golfers: etiology and prevention. Journal of Sports
Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, June 1998; vol. 12, no. 2,
pp45-54.
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