Fitness Center - Common Problems

Low back pain is the most common injury we see on and off the TOUR. Even if you have a flawless swing, you're still at risk for injury due to the fact that the swing uses the back for leverage. Each time you make a swing, your back has to change position, resist torque, compress and rotate along its own axis. The back incurs stress as the hips rotate in the swing, therefore most injuries occur at the lower region of the spine.

Treatment- Ice the area of discomfort for 20 minutes a minimum of 4 times daily. Take an over the counter anti-inflammatory drug as directed to reduce swelling. The next step is to do stretching exercises daily and strengthening exercises every other day. If the pain persists, see your physician immediately.

Prevention- Improving golf swing mechanics is the first step to reducing back pain. Keeping your back strong, stretched and flexible will aid in injury prevention.

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Start: Lie face down with your legs extended, arms bent and close to your rib cage for support.

Action: Flex your gluteal muscles (buttocks) and lift one leg as high as possible keeping it straight. Slowly return to the start position. Repeat.

Notice: Do not let your foot rest on the floor. Do as many as you can up to 10 repetitions for beginner, 15 for intermediate and 20 for advanced level. Be careful not to lift the leg too high to cause low back discomfort.

Recommended Stretch:
Low Back Stretch

Start: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.

Action: Pull one leg toward your chest keeping your head on the floor. Hold for 20 seconds. Return to the start position. Do the same for the opposite side.

Notice: Do this stretch slowly and with control.