What Golf Does to the Body
The golf swing is one of the most biomechanically demanding movements in sport. It requires coordinated rotation through the thoracic spine, hips, and shoulders, with significant force transfer through the lower back at the point of impact.
Golfers commonly develop pain and dysfunction from two sources: acute injuries from swing mechanics, and cumulative overuse from repetitive rotation and impact. Back pain is the most frequently reported complaint, but golf-related injuries also affect the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hip.
Chiropractic care for golfers addresses both the site of pain and the movement restrictions, often in adjacent joints, that contribute to poor swing mechanics and injury recurrence.
How Prebish Chiropractic Centre Treats Golf Injuries
Dr. Andrew Yockey, D.C., C.C.S.P.® holds the Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician credential, which includes advanced training in sports biomechanics and athletic injury management. Both providers at Prebish Chiropractic Centre hold sports medicine certifications, which is uncommon among chiropractic clinics in the Battle Creek area.
For golfers, treatment typically integrates:
- Joint manipulation targeting thoracic spine mobility, hip rotation, and shoulder mechanics: the three areas most directly tied to swing function
- Soft tissue therapy including myofascial release and Graston Technique for elbow, wrist, and shoulder tendon issues
- Corrective exercise prescription designed around the specific demands of the golf swing
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
Step 1: Assessment
Step 2: Treatment
Step 3: Return to the Course
What Golfers Typically Experience From Treatment
- Reduced back, shoulder, or elbow pain with a treatment approach designed around the specific demands of golf
- Improved thoracic mobility and hip rotation, which often translates to more consistent swing mechanics and reduced compensatory strain
- A corrective exercise plan that supports function on the course, not just pain reduction in the clinic
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care for Golfers
The most common presentations include lower back pain, thoracic stiffness, golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis), shoulder impingement, hip restriction, and wrist strain. Dr. Yockey also sees golfers whose swing mechanics have been altered by previous injuries or compensations in adjacent joints.
Pain relief and performance are often related. Restrictions in thoracic rotation, hip mobility, or shoulder mechanics can both contribute to injury and limit swing function. Addressing joint restrictions and soft tissue tightness frequently improves movement quality alongside pain reduction.
In most cases, modified play or reduced volume is preferable to complete rest. Dr. Yockey will give you clear guidance based on your injury, and where possible the treatment plan is designed around your game schedule.
The C.C.S.P.® is a post-graduate designation that includes advanced training in sports injury assessment, biomechanics, and return-to-sport management. For golfers, this means your care is informed by sport-specific knowledge, not adapted from general musculoskeletal protocols.
Yes. Prebish Chiropractic Centre treats recreational golfers, competitive amateurs, and older golfers managing cumulative wear. The treatment approach is adjusted based on your activity level, injury history, and goals.
Book Your Golf Chiropractic Appointment in Battle Creek
Prebish Chiropractic Centre has served the Battle Creek area since 1979.
With both providers holding sports medicine certifications, the clinic offers a level of sport-specific expertise that is uncommon in a mid-size market. Dr. Yockey is currently accepting new patients.
