Why is the lower back so often injured during the game of golf? Reasearch studies have provided us some keys as to why this is the case. The golf swing is commonly broken down into phases; address, take away, backswing, transition, downswing, impact, and follow through. Each phase of the swing can be performed either efficiently or inefficiently. A PGA Tour player is likely to perform the swing in a highly efficient manner with optimal mechanics, requiring less fatigue to placed upon the muscular system of the body during the execution of the swing.

An amateur or less skilled golfer is more likely to have less efficient mechanics. To compensate for these improper mechanics the golfer will attempt to generate extra force from specific muscles, place greater loads upon certain structures of the body, and input more effort in the execution of each swing. For example, research from Hosea indicated in certain situations amateurs may develop up to 80% more peak torque in their lumber spine (i.e. lower back) than that of a professional. As a result greater stress is placed upon the structures of the lower back which can lead to overuse injuries.

In addition, Hosea also found professional golfers were generating 34% more club head speed than that of the amateur player, yet amateurs were producing spinal forces 50 to 80% higher, and 50% more trunk muscle activity than the professional. All this information points to the one reason why the lower back is commonly injured; inefficient mechanics place greater loads upon the lumbar spine and require greater efforts from the muscular system to execute every swing. Both of which over time can cause overuse and structural injuries to the body.

In order for the amateur player to reduce the potential for injury a number of steps can be taken. Improving the efficiency by which the golf swing is executed will reduce the stress placed upon the body, thus decreasing the chance of injury. Secondly, removing any physical dysfunctions in terms of mobility or stability limitations impeding the golf swing. This step will provide the golfer an opportunity to execute an efficient swing with less stress placed upon the structures of the body. This second step can be accomplished via golf fitness training and golf exercises. The first step is achieved via instruction from a qualified teaching professional and consistent practice.