Teeing Off with Confidence: Managing Low Back Pain for a Return to Golf

by Frank Abbate | Oct 30, 2023

Introduction:
For many golf enthusiasts, low back pain can be a major obstacle when trying to enjoy a round of golf. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, the fear of aggravating your low back issues can be daunting. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make a smooth return to golf without letting low back pain hold you back.

1. Consult with a Healthcare Professional:
Before hitting the golf course, consult with a healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor or physical therapist, to assess your low back pain. Their expertise will provide you with a clear understanding of your condition and personalized advice on how to proceed safely.
2. Strengthen Your Core:
A strong and stable core is essential for golfers. It not only improves your swing but also supports your lower back. Incorporate core-strengthening exercises into your fitness routine to help protect your spine.
3. Warm Up and Stretch:
Never underestimate the importance of warming up and stretching before a game of golf. Gentle stretching can increase flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and minimize the risk of injury, especially in your lower back, hamstrings, and hip flexors.
4. Focus on Proper Swing Mechanics:
Golf is a sport that heavily relies on technique. Seek professional instruction and coaching to ensure you’re using the correct form. Proper swing mechanics can alleviate strain on your lower back and enhance your performance.
5. Listen to Your Body:
Pain is your body’s way of communicating. If you start to feel discomfort or pain during your game, take it seriously. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to further injury. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance and guidance.
6. Gradual Progression:
Returning to golf should be a gradual process. It’s important not to push yourself too hard initially. Start with shorter sessions and less strenuous games, then gradually increase the duration and intensity as your back adapts.
7. Consider Supportive Equipment:
Using equipment like a back brace or orthotics specifically designed for golf can provide added support and stability for your lower back. These tools can help reduce the risk of injury.
8. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:
Overall well-being, including good nutrition and regular exercise, can significantly contribute to managing low back pain. Staying in good physical shape and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on your lower back.

Conclusion:
Returning to golf with low back pain is achievable when you approach it with care and the right strategies. By consulting with a healthcare professional, strengthening your core, perfecting your swing mechanics, and paying attention to your body’s signals, you can minimize the risk of low back pain and confidently enjoy your time on the golf course. Remember, a gradual and cautious approach is key to a successful return to the game you love.

Client Reviews

Dr Frank takes the time to get to know you and all your issues. Very through and professional in his assessment. I’ve been going to chiropractors for 27 years and he really goes above and beyond compared to the dozen or so I’ve seen in my lifetime. If you’re looking for more than an in an out adjustment… to get to the route of your issues, give Dr Frank Abate a call!

Jennifer T

I've been seeing Dr Frank for the past few months for help with soreness and discomfort in my neck and back. I have Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) which affects the collagen in the body and leads to extra stretchy tendons and ligaments... Which leads to lots of muscle tension and tightness, along with subluxations of various body parts, tendons popping into the wrong places, injuries that never really heal, and a lot of back pain.

I've been dealing with this since 2010 and Dr. Frank's knowledge of the body, integration of rehab exercises, and advice have been invaluable to me. He does a lot more than adjustments during the visits, including soft tissue work, stretching, functional movement assessment, etc. Because he spends a lot more time with me than a lot of other patients, I pay a little more, but his prices are very reasonable and so worth it. We're making steady progress and he's always there to support me when I need it.
Dr. Frank is really easy to work with and he treats patients like equals, never talking down to me or making me feel uncomfortable. The office is pretty easy to find, and it's inside the Get Fit NH office space next to their gym. I would recommend Dr Frank to anyone, but especially to hEDS/EDS patients who need the extra time and care so that they can start to overcome years of muscle tension and injuries.

Justin C

I highly recommend Back In Action Chiropractic for anyone dealing with injuries or chronic pain. Dr. Frank has helped me so much with issues with my neck and lower back that I thought I just had to live with - but for the most part, I am pain free now! He does a very thorough assessment, does soft tissue work and adjustments, and really gets to know his patients to provide the highest level of care. It’s always a good experience going to see Dr. Frank - he’s a great chiropractor and an awesome person too!

Amy W

Frank is awesome! I would highly recommend to anyone. As an athlete, he got me back into my sport within two weeks with just a couple visits and some at home stretching. As a first timer, he was very good at explaining what was going on and what we were doing. Very smart, cleanly, and kind, thank you Frank!

Emma P

Frank is outstanding! Extremely patient, great listener, remarkably intuitive, understanding, kind and most of all effective. Every exercise he gave me had value, every motion was a step forward and every visit was time well spent. Very highly recommended!!!

Vadim M

Frank is knowledgeable, professional, clean & makes his patients feel comfortable. He has extensive knowledge of different stretches and movements that can be done at home to relieve pain and has not only helped me with neck/back issues, but I also my father, whom I referred over to Frank for Siatic nerve pain issues, and it's completely improved his ailments as well.

Highly recommend Abbate Chiropractic!