|
Birdie Talk Golf Talk
By Dr. G.P. Sadiwnyk D.C.
Welcome to Birdie Talk Golf Talk.
Every issue, I will discuss common injuries that amateur golfers suffer from needlessly that limit them from consistently performing at their best level. Did you ever watch an amateur golfer on video film and compare the mechanics to that of a PGA tour pro? If you have, the first thing you will notice is that most amateurs have poor swing mechanics which lead to a golf swing which lacks the fluid motion of somebody like Ernie Els or Tiger Woods. The swing is not coordinated so that the legs, hips, shoulders and arms do not flow. The purpose of this series is to point out to amateurs what can be done to correct faulty mechanics, identify proper treatment for injuries and provide some tips to help reduce injury.
The first topic is the Set Up followed by the Hip Turn in the next issue. One can't really discuss a full and complete hip turn without mentioning the shoulder turn. These topics are important because golfers most commonly suffer from injuries to the low back and associated structures such as the hip, knee, ankle and foot.
Set Up
-
Bend forward with the bend coming from the
hip and not the waist
-
Imagine your chest facing forward rather than
down
-
Knees are slightly bent.
-
Your bottom is sticking out slightly
-
Your back is fairly straight
-
Your arms to fall down to the club naturally
-
Good Set Up
Weight is fairly evenly distributed. With the longer irons and woods, weight distribution will be more towards the back foot. I must add that even though the set up is good, the "normal" golf swing does allow for twisting of the spine which is harmful. If you have a low back condition, see your chiropractor to determine whether or not you should be playing or not.
-
Hunched Forward
This set up usually provides for "chunky" shots because the stance is too close to the ball. Secondly, these golfers generally swing too hard which increases the pressure on the low back. Poor posture is also of concern. Eventually these golfers develop neck and shoulder problems. This topic will be discussed in a later issue of Birdie Talk Golf Talk.
-
Too Straight
This set up is too straight. These golfers generally "top" the ball. In addition to poor ball contact, these golfers have a very steep swing arc leading to excessive stress on the shoulders and low back. Swinging hard is a concern for these golfers also. These golfers generally have poor grip alignment and increase the stress on the wrist and forearm throughout the setup and swing leading to "golfers elbow."
Until next time, slow down your swing, swing easy, relax and enjoy the best game around.
|
