Physiotherapy for Golf Performance Paul Thawley MSc BSc (Hons) MCSP SRP

The Role of Physiotherapy Assess the Golfers Physical Capabilities using a series of baseline tests Combine Golf Pro assessment with Physio Screening and Video Analysis Categorise into one of four profiles

Muscle Imbalance Stability Muscles Control of Trunk and Pelvis Postural Control Balance & Segmental Stability Smooth Co-ordination Spread the load Apply the brakes

Muscle Imbalance Mobility / Power Muscles Accelerate the club Rapid ballistic movement Power Movement Limb and whole body movement

Consequence of Imbalance Altered Swing Path Inconsistency Reduced Power & Distance Injury Incorrect activation / Timing Reduced Efficiency Fatigue

Ideal Control in Golf Establish Control of Pelvic Movement independently of the spine and hips Appropriate sequencing Re-balancing movement Assess and Address muscle imbalance

4 Basic Problems Lack of Basic Skill Structural Problem (Pathology) Functional Problem (Muscle Imbalance) Reactive functional problems

Lack of Basic Skill

Structural Problem Manage Problem (Appropriate Treatment) Change or modify technique to accommodate problem Unless the problem is likely to resolve Establish time frame (e.g. Increased hip rotation causing muscle imbalance v degenerative arthritis)

Functional Problems Correct with Exercise Restrictions Tests of Range Compensations Tests of Control Consistent problem of ball control

Reactive Functional Problems Golfer aware of problem Tries to correct it Over-correction Subtle restrictions / Movement Dysfunctions Address Underlying Cause

Rotation Control Issues Wrist & Forearm Arm & Shoulder v Shoulder Blade / Back L & R Shoulder blades & Back Low back & Pelvis v Upper back Low back & Pelvis v Tilt / Shift of Pelvis Low back & Pelvis v Hips Head & Neck v Shoulder Blades / Back Hips v Lower Limbs & Weight Shift

Control Issues Performance faults often come before the pain Provides a rationale for addressing movement dysfunction to address performance and to prevent injury

Restriction of Range Restriction of Shoulder Inward Rotation 50% Limited Passively Must be compensated for in the golf swing

Restricted Internal Rotation

Waiter’s Bow

Pelvis & Hip Rotation Control