Predictors of low back pain in young elite golfers: A preliminary study

Objectives: Low back pain (LBP) is a common and disabling problem amongst golfers. Despite this, the risk factors for LBP in golfers have not been clearly established and therefore, optimal prevention strategies are not developed. This study was designed as a preliminary investigation of predictors for LBP in trainee professional golfers. Design: Longitudinal prospective study. Setting: Golf courses. Participants: Trainee professional golfers (N = 14). Main outcome measures: Potential risk factors included anthropometric variables, flexibility, muscle strength, and muscle endurance. Associations were evaluated between these risk factors and reported episodes of LBP obtained from participants after every trainee match during one competition season. Results: Golfers with a body mass index (BMI) < 25.7 kg/m(2) and those with a right side deficit of > 12.5 s on the side bridge endurance test reported more frequent episodes of moderate-severe LBP. Golfers with reduced hip flexor length more often reported that LBP affected their golf. Conclusions: BMI the side bridge endurance test, and hip flexor length were found to be significantly related to LBP amongst trainee professional golfers. Having optimal values on these variables may potentially prevent LBP arising from the repetitive biomechanical demands of the golf swing. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.