Health Tips

This Month's Tip:

Thirty percent of golfers have experienced low back pain severe enough that it has affected their ability to play -- and enjoy -- the game. The golf swing creates considerable stress on the lower back. In addition to a consistent back health/flexibility routine, try the following, before and during a round:

Warm-up, gently but thoroughly.
Walk, if you're able. Riding in motorized carts can be hard on your back, so if you must ride, then be the driver.
Swing easy, to make the ball go far -- it works!
Consider a longer putter if putting increases your pain
Bend from the knees and hips, and use your putter for support, when retrieving your ball from the cup.

Remember, if you're experiencing unremitting back pain, always consult your doctor or other health care practitioner.

Previous Tips:

Most of us are aware of the risk of skin cancer and remember to apply sun screen on the golf course. But, many of us are unaware of the risk of eye disease, including cataracts, associated with sun exposure. So, invest in a good pair of golf-specific sunglasses, that protect your eyes from both UV-A and UV-B radiation. Some may even improve your depth perception and green reading ability to knock a few strokes off your scores!

____

As we begin another New Year, it seems that practicing better health habits is always a common resolution. A simple and effective way to be healthier is to get out of the golf cart and walk the golf course. Not only will it positively affect your cardiovascular health, but also improve your mood and even help protect you from a variety of diseases such as cancer. If it's too cold to play where you live, or even be outside right now, start a walking routine on a treadmill. So, get some comfortable shoes, start slow, and check with your doctor first, especially if it's been a while.

____

Just because it's warm outside doesn't mean you don't need to warm up your body before a round of golf. It's still important to go through your regular stretching routine before taking any swings to help prevent injury, especially after jumping out of your air-conditioned car. At the same time, if it's extremely hot & humid, you may want to decrease your pre-round practice session (i.e. full golf swings) so as to not tire yourself out prior to even getting on the course. It's OK -- you can spend a little more time on your short game, which will probably help you score better anyhow. And remember to stay well hydrated with water and/or sports drinks, which should begin even before the round.

____

There's a reason that high blood pressure -- or hypertension -- is called "the silent killer." Often, there are no symptoms until something drastic happens, such as a stroke. There are also many long term complications of hypertension so it's vitally important to take a preventive approach and control it as early as possible. It's important to know that the official guidelines have recently become more stringent, so a previously "borderline" blood pressure may now be classified as "high." And remember, the machines at the local grocery or drug store are notoriously inaccurate, so have your doctor's office check it for you. Don't ignore it simply because you can't feel it!

_____

As another golf season begins to draw to a close, it's a great time to commit ourselves to staying in shape over the winter months. Choose a routine that you can stick to and that has variety, trying to incorporate some golf-specific exercises and drills to make it more interesting. Don't use the holiday season as an excuse to get lazy and out of shape. It'll be much easier to "get the rust off" next spring -- or, if you're lucky, for that mid-winter golf getaway to some warm, exotic place! So, check with your doctor to decide on a fitness program, taking into account any medical conditions and/or physical limitations you may have. Also, talk with your local golf pro about some good indoor drills to help keep your game sharp!

_____

With the "dog days" of summer upon us, there are several points well worth remembering. First, always use sunscreen -- every time you play or practice -- and a wide brimmed hat. Skin cancer remains a significant and potentially deadly problem for golfers, and your risk goes up with each and every sunburn! Second, stay hydrated -- before, during, and after the round. It's best to mix water with sports drinks, and don't wait until you're thirsty. Also remember that alcohol and caffeine are diuretics and will actually cause dehydration. If its a hot day, and you're beginning to get muscle cramps, intense thirst, weakness, or lightheadedness, it's time to get off the course to a cool place, rest and rehydrate.
_____

If you have known heart disease, then you probably know what your "typical angina" feels like and what brings it on. If it changes, intensifies, or will not stop, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you haven't had heart trouble before, chest pain is always something to be taken seriously, particularly if you have risk factors -- even in the middle of a round of golf!
_____

Chronic pain, whether from arthritis or other causes, should not necessarily be attributed to being part of the "normal" aging process. If you suffer from arthritis to the point that it is limiting your ability to play and enjoy golf, talk to your doctor about exercise and/or physical therapy programs, the mainstays of treatment. Most importantly, don't just "live with it" or use it as an excuse for not playing golf.
_____

With all the talk of "low carb" diets lately, realize that they may not help you during a round of golf. Both your energy level and your state of mind are affected by what you eat before and during the round. Eat foods for sustained energy before, and for quick energy during the round. So talk to your doctor and/or a good nutritionist.
_____

Whatever your medical and/or physical limitations might be, both your play and enjoyment level will benefit from a personalized program of exercise and stretching. First talk to your doctor and then meet with a personal trainer, to be safe and certain to derive the most benefit. Who knows, soon you may be walking the course!
_____

It's the start of a new golf season for most of you. As you're getting yourself and your swing back in shape, why not make a visit to your personal physician part of your early season routine? That way, you can not only feel more confident knowing that you're managing your health, but increase the chance that you'll be out on the course more -- and feel better when you are!