A review of back pain in golfers: Etiology and prevention

Abstract

Back pain among the golfing population is considered to be endemic. The adoption of the so‐called modern golf swing is thought to be a source of back pain and injury for both amateurs and professionals. Unlike the modern swing, the classic swing generates significantly less torsion in the back. The classic swing is characterized by considerable pelvic rotation during the backswing, which is made possible by lifting the heel of the front foot. In contrast, the modern golf swing demands restricted pelvic rotation and maximal torso rotation. This results in the generation of significant injury‐promoting torsional forces within spinal structures. This review provides a critique of the Biomechanics of the modern golf swing and also evaluates anatomical and physiological determinants of power for optimal and injury free performance in golf. A contemporary explanation of power generation is proposed, and the mechanics of a more “back‐friendly” golf swing is presented.