Column How Much Strain is Exerted on the Lower Back During a Golf Swing? ⛳

December 21, 2022

Golf is widely known as a sport that places significant stress on the lower back. As a result, many golfers continue playing while enduring pain, or struggle to play comfortably due to physical limitations.
In this article, we will explain what types of stress are applied to the lower back during a golf swing.

The greatest strain on the lumbar spine occurs at the moment of impact, and the following forces are applied to the spine:

•	Compression force: Pressure that compresses the intervertebral discs and facet joints

•	Shear force: A force that pushes the discs and joints forward or backward

•	Rotational force: A twisting stress on the discs and joints

•	Lateral bending: A force that brings the facet joints on one side of the spine closer together

Research conducted among golfers with low back pain found that many reported pain on the right side of the lower back from impact through follow-through, and that bone structural changes in the vertebrae and facet joints were more frequently observed on the right side.

Therefore, in order to be able to continue enjoying golf for many years to come, it is essential to:

•	Develop a swing form that minimizes spinal stress

•	Improve flexibility to allow smooth body movement

•	Strengthen stabilizing muscles to support the spine

Building on these abilities can help prevent pain and reduce the risk of injury while playing golf.