How can Osteopathy improve your game?
Osteopathy works in harmony with the biomechanics of the body and the golf swing itself. Osteopaths use techniques such as muscle energy techniques, high velocity thrusts (HVT), stretching and articulation.
Through good treatment plans, clients have enjoyed increased lengths to their drive, a better short game, less or no pain with previous injuries, more energy throughout the 18 holes, better recovery and consequently more enjoyment!
Consultation
A consultation looks at your medical history and all previous injuries or concerns. This is followed by a full postural and biomechanical assessment, including strength and flexibility testing, sensory and reflexes changes, joint mobility testing for the spine and peripheral joints. We will then devise a treatment plan on improvements necessary to help you reach better performance and enjoyment.
The osteopath will liaise directly with your golf professional to specifically work with your biomechanics, thus helping to raise your game to its optimum.
The Low Back (Lumbar Spine)
Among professional and amateur golfers, low back pain has been cited as the most common golf-related injury. It is estimated that 10-33% of LPGA and PGA touring professionals are playing whilst injured at any given time and that half the group will develop chronic problems.
In the modern swing, the golfer finishes in a lordotic 'reversed c' position. This 'reversed c' leads to hyper-extension of the lower back which adds increased stress on the joints and paraspinal muscles of the lumbar spine.
Increased loads to the lumbar spine during the golf swing, as well as the large forces generated by these muscles, predispose the golfer to muscular strains, spondylosis (degenerative spine condition) and associated risk of herniated discs.
The Mid Back (Thoracic Spine)
The middle of the upper back or thoracic spine can make or break the golf swing. A flexible and supple T-spine will allow for smooth swing mechanics while restrictions will inevitably lead to poor performance and/or injury.
The ribs need to be able to expand, contract and rotate. This allows the diaphragm to move freely. Rotation can be restricted if the muscles between the ribs (the intercostal muscles) are tight. You may have felt something similar to a sharp, stabbing pain in your ribs after a day of hitting balls. This could be your intercostal muscles telling you that they have worked too hard. This is particularly important when associated with general arthritic spine conditions.
The Neck (Cervical Spine)
As well as having similar spinal restrictions, this area is one of the most important for golf. Good stable mechanics for the golfer's eye-to-ball connection is fundamental in allowing the whole body swing to work correctly.
Conditions arising from poor mechanics in golf also include:
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee and ankle pain
- Wrist and elbow pain
The importance of proper warm-up and stretching routines prior to play cannot be overemphasised. At The Osteopathic Consultancy we will devise specific exercise routines for your own golf biomechanic needs.
Fees:
- Initial consultation: £40
- Follow-up treatments: £30
Booking and further information
To book your initial consultation at our city centre clinic, please call us now on 01603 66 44 59. For the price of a green fee, your new freedom of movement will change your approach to playing golf forever.
For further information you can email us at: info@osteopathic-consultancy.com
A case study
Click here for the case study of one of our patients who has benefitted from this treatment.