'Back' to Playing Golf

One might ask, "what does playing golf have to do with spinal medicine and surgery?" Or, "why is a spine surgeon taking about playing golf?" The answer is simple. Most of us are living longer and healthier lives due to advancements in modern medicine and surgery, as well as our enhanced understanding of the aging process. There is also the belief that we stay healthy because we stay active, both physically and mentally. In my practice, all patients are encouraged to pick up, or resume, a recreational sport as part of their treatment even after spine surgery, including golf.

Why golf? Let's break down the components of a typical golf outing. First, one must be able to walk in order to address their ball. Next, proper posture with strong core muscles is essential to stand and assume proper golf posture. Further, strong upper extremity muscles are required to manipulate the clubs. And finally, good balance is essential to avoid failing. All of this coupled with mental focus, concentration, relaxation, and plain enjoyment paint a picture of an active and healthy life experience that can be enjoyed by all regardless of age, sex, or race.

It is important to realize that degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis (to name a few) will affect 90% of the population sometime in their lifetime requiring treatment. Degenerative conditions involving our bones, joints, muscles, supporting soft tissue structures and our nervous system are progressive and generally continue through the various stages of life. There are presently no cures for any of these conditions. Hence, we must treat the problems rather than promise cures.

The various treatments that we use include medications, pain management and injection procedures, surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation. In most cases we are able to effectively treat these problems, which should reduce or eliminate pain, as well as improve function. Once a patient completes the treatment program, the all too important element of wellness and health maintenance comes into play, which is often overlooked by many. This is where engaging in an enjoyable recreational sport will help to maintain and further enhance these benefits and hopefully prevent future problems from occurring. The name of the game is staying physically fit, active, and mentally focused on health and well being. The inevitable result for most is the ability to continue the pursuit of our passions.

For more information on this and other topics related to spinal medicine and surgery, please contact us at www.biscupspine.com.