Lower back and elbow injuries in golf

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Therapy
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Golf injuries, particularly to the lower back and elbow, are prevalent in players of all levels.
• Effective treatment information is crucial for medical practitioners managing these common golf-related ailments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the successful management and outcomes of two case studies involving golfers with low back pain and lateral epicondylitis.
• To highlight the efficacy of dynamic, golf-specific exercise programs in treating and preventing these injuries.

Main Methods:

• Case study approach detailing the management of low back pain and lateral epicondylitis in two golfers.
• Low back pain management focused on conditioning the transversus abdominis muscle, utilizing computer tomography for evaluation.
• Lateral epicondylitis treatment involved a comprehensive resistance-strength-training program and a golf functional 'hitting' program, with consideration for neuropathy.

Main Results:

• Successful outcomes were achieved in both case studies through tailored exercise therapy and conditioning.
• The dynamic, golf-functional rehabilitation program proved effective in managing and potentially preventing golf injuries.
• Patient adherence to exercise regimens remains a critical factor in successful treatment.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic, golf-specific exercise programs are an effective modality for treating and preventing common golf injuries like low back pain and lateral epicondylitis.
• A thorough understanding of golf swing mechanics and musculoskeletal demands is essential for clinicians.
• Personalized rehabilitation programs that accommodate individual golfer characteristics are key to successful outcomes.