For many Americans, golf is considered one of the most enjoyable pastimes. In fact, in 2020, according to the National Golf Foundation, nearly 25 million Americans played golf out on a golf course. That’s around 8 percent of the U.S. population, which is a pretty large number of individuals. However, like anything, playing golf can come with some drawbacks. Every golf swing made during play exerts some pressure on the back, which may eventually lead to stiffness and pain. When it comes to golf injuries, 85% of reported injuries were related to the spine and low back pain. Unfortunately, injuries occur more often than not. In fact, studies have found that roughly 70% of golfers have suffered from at least one injury during their careers. Furthermore, while it is true that most golf-related injuries are relatively minor, approximately half are chronic injuries. This means that they will get worse with time unless they are treated properly.
Whether the golfer is a professional or a beginner, the benefits of a chiropractor to a golfer can hardly be overlooked. There are many reasons why golfers love to see a chiropractor. Golfers routinely see their chiropractors to remove their discomfort and realign their spine, as well as additional benefits that may be given by visiting a chiropractor’s office. In fact, it has been reported that 75% of professional golfers routinely see a chiropractor. We have narrowed down the top seven reasons why golfers love receiving chiropractic care:
1. Increased Flexibility
One of the few sports that require consistent flexibility is golf. Golfers must have a flexible spine to allow them to make an excellent swing. Through chiropractic care, the flexibility of a golfer may be restored. When meeting with your chiropractor, he or she will address any concerns you have in relation to stiffness, strains, or inflammation and will develop a personalized therapy program that is catered to your individual needs. Flexibility and range of motion may be increased, and any limitations of motion may be restored through chiropractic therapy to optimal flexibility.
2. Poor Swing Mechanics
Swing mechanics can make or break a golfer. All good swings should be smooth, fluid, and seamless and made in a continuous motion. However, due to physical restrictions, some golfers may be unable to easily make these smooth motions that contribute to a good swing. However, a chiropractor can perform a variety of treatments to restore physical health and minimize any mechanical restrictions, allowing you to perform at your best.
3. Poor Posture
One limitation many golfers struggle with is having an awkward posture. If you struggle with bad posture, a chiropractor may be able to help you to improve it. There are many treatments and exercises a chiropractic doctor will be able to suggest or initiate according to your individualized care plan to return you to peak health. The key to achievement in golf may lie not in training but in being and remaining in optimal physical condition. It is a myth that golf is purely a technical sport. Swinging a club, twisting the body, and stooping and bending, over the course of many years can be physically demanding. Competitive golfers must invest in their bodies to be at the top of their game. Many professional golfers have used and sworn by chiropractic care, including Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and more, who have highly regarded chiropractic treatment publicly as a key to success. Golfers routinely discover that a chiropractor helps them stay in the best shape possible.
4. Improved Balance and Coordination
Golfers require a good deal of balance and coordination, whether when setting yourself for a small put or for a long drive. If your balance feels off, your whole swing can be thrown off. Without proper coordination and balance, swings may be leaned to one side, or you may miss an easy putt entirely. Balance issues may stem from several different problems, including hip imbalance, the difference in leg length, misalignment of the spine, or curvature of the spine. Chiropractors may help you correct balance issues by ensuring that your body is aligned properly. Chiropractic adjustments will help correct misalignments allowing you to perform optimally.
5. Drug-Free Pain Relief
Unfortunately, pains and aches can result from playing golf, especially when having played over the course of many years. Fortunately, an experienced chiropractic doctor can help reduce your aches and pains, promote the healing process, and increase your immune response naturally. Best of all, chiropractors offer pain relief that is entirely drug-free, freeing individuals from many negative side effects of pharmaceutical drugs. Chiropractic care has also been shown to be an effective alternative
6. Avoid Future Golf Injuries
Golf can be an extremely demanding sport. Although many players can continue to engage in this pastime well into their elderly years, golf injuries may happen to anyone at any time. Chiropractic care is a wonderful solution to aid your body in staying in shape, avoiding future injuries, and recovering from any current injuries. By seeing a chiropractor who has experience working with golfers, you will give your body the best chance of remaining injury-free. Explain to your chiropractor how much you play golf and where you may be experiencing any comfort. For example, a golfer’s elbow may come on slow but is a prevalent injury that players may suffer from. Injuries may prevent you from playing for weeks or even months. With the help of a chiropractor, you will be back on the course as soon as possible.
7. Investing in Your Health as a Golfer
Engaging in any competitive sport may tax the body, especially over time. In addition to diet and exercise, it is vital that you invest in your health as a golfer. Seeing a chiropractor will help you maintain your health and improve your game. You will see increases in energy and flexibility and have reduced risks of obtaining an injury. Join other professional and hobbyist golfers by visiting a chiropractor to receive a personalized treatment plan to help you to play at your very best.
