Symptoms of problems with your lumbar spine include pain and stiffness in the lower back, muscle spasm or pain or weakness in the legs. There are some solutions that may help to rectify the problem of back pain. In terms of technique and equipment perhaps using a longer putter to avoid the hunched posture, using a buggy/caddy for easier transportation of clubs, using a smaller back swing, rotating the lead hip on the follow through and keeping your knees soft. It might be an idea to work on your swing with a professional to correct any technical errors. However, acute periods of low back pain should be treated with 48 hours of rest, and then rehabilitation. It may be beneficial to visit a physiotherapist for either rehabilitation from injury or optimising function and movement to prevent injury.

As well as pain on the inside of the elbow, there may also be stiffness, a weakness in the hand or wrist or pain when making a fist. If you are suffering with these symptoms, the first thing to try is resting the elbow from golf and other aggravating factors, icing the area regularly for 10-15 minutes at a time. Anti-inflammatory pain medication (such as ibuprofen) can be considered to help relieve symptoms. Another option is to use an elbow brace to offload the pressure from the affected area.  Professional coaching can help to fine tune your swing to change any bad habits.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterised by the tingling or numbness of fingers and a decreased dexterity of movement. DeQuervain’s syndrome is characterised by pain at the wrist at the base of the thumb. Again, rest and regular icing of the area can help to reduce pain. Short term, changing some aspects of your swing such as using a light grip pressure, a slow backswing, with decreased wrist motion and avoiding a steep downswing to decrease the chance of hitting the ground.  Longer term, grip strengthening exercises would be beneficial to strengthen the muscles.