This is the fourth year that Tulsa Spine and Rehab has been fortunate enough to participate in the US Open. Ryan Smith and I are both Titleist Performance Institute certified medical providers, and we developed SwingFit here at our offices. We work with golfers to identify any limitations and improve the four key areas most important for an effective swing: stability, mobility, strength and flexibility. Along with performance training, we also provide extensive rehab.
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Golfers have professional coaches, equipment, and sometimes even sports psychologists. Now, they are also able to pay attention to maintaining peak physical fitness, which is very important. Tiger Woods was largely influential in the formation of this new paradigm. What had previously been centered on equipment and course management has now shifted towards fitness and high mobility. Tour players like Adam Scott are examples of strong athletes whose fitness translates over to powerful, controlled golf swings.
We work with players, caddies, and some of the US Open USGF officials well before the tournament officially begins. I typically see patients that have minor tightness in areas like the back or shoulders, mainly because they are playing multiple practice rounds. That is a lot of stress to put on the body in such a short period of time. It is amazing how much attention golfers pay to their bodies. If they didn’t, they would probably get injured very frequently. They are not only paying attention to how far they can consistently hit the ball, but what they can do to prevent injuries from overuse. That is why flexibility and mobility are key areas that we focus on.
The number one injury among tour players is left wrist pain. With this in mind, what would you guess is the number one injury among amateurs? It turns out, it is actually low back pain. The reason that pro golfers injure their wrists is due to the repetition of hitting so many shots. Amateurs, on the other hand, end up having form that results in tightness in the hip or mid back. The low back then compensates, and becomes the area of pain. This is why we address flexibility in the hips and mid back of amateur golfers in many cases.
The USGA has demonstrated their commitment to providing chiropractic, physical therapy, physicians, and massage therapists to players. In turn, players are very excited to take advantage of all the services that are provided. We are very happy to be part of the wellness team that travels to the US Open each year. Over this time, we have developed strong relationships with quite a few players. Golf is a sport that people can play even as they approach 70 years or older. As long as injury is prevented in a proactive manner, golfers will continue to enjoy the sport they love.
If you’re a golfer that wants to optimize flexibility, mobility, stability, and strength, learn more about SwingFit. You can also contact Dr. Riley and the team at Tulsa Spine and Rehab by calling (918) 743-3737.
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