The sport of golf is booming and attracting many new golfers that cannot anticipate “attacking” the magic white ball. This enthusiasm, however, can be placed in connection with increasing injuries or problems of the spine.

Dr. Thomas Hoogland, a passionate golfer himself, got to the bottom of the problem. Statistics show that, in comparison to other popular sports, golf tends to attract elder players that - as a course of nature - bear a higher risk of injuries, especially of the lumber spine. This development is observed daily at the Dr. Hoogland Spine Center. We treat those golfers who suffer from “handicap spine” with a specifically tailored work-out and have seen very good results. Subsequently, most of these patients were even able to improve their handicap. Golf combines very specific, anatomically undisputable principles: strong compressive forces in connection with the collateral bending of the back can negatively affect the spinal column. A strong back with well conditioned muscles, however, bears far lesser risks of injury.

Underestimating the forces involved, many golfers hit the green without any or too little exercise -consequently and unnecessarily boosting the risk of injury. A proper warm-up should become an essential part of the game. As a start, walking at faster pace to the driving range or 1st tee already boosts blood circulation of the musculature. If you include the following exercises into your routine prior to a game of golf, you will notice fewer troubles in the area of the spine. zoomzoom Moreover, thanks to your now well conditioned musculature, you may find that the interaction of your muscle-groups during a drive has improved positively. Another benefit could be a farther drive thanks to faster swing speed. The pursuit for a better handicap may begin! Enjoy your game!