Upper back pain

[newtogolf]

I started playing about 5 weeks ago, lessons, practice range (3-5 times per week 120 balls per session) and a few rounds. About a week ago I started to feel some pain in my upper back on my right hand side (I'm a lefty). I can't pinpoint if it's a muscle or somewhere around the rear of my rib cage.

Anyone else experience this? I've never had back issues and lifted weights most of my life so I'm wondering if it's related to the extension and coiling on my backswing and if it's common. Thanks

[JetFan1983]

Upper back issues with golf are usually muscle related, but this is just pure speculation on my part that that is what's wrong with you specifically. That being said, the best remedy for muscle injuries is to start using ice for 10-20 minute intervals multiple times a day in that initial 72 hour period. Just make sure to take a good break in between icing sessions, like an hour at least. Anti-inflammatories can also help reduce the inflammation. Light ballistic stretching can help as well if the injury's not too bad. After the initial 72 hour period is over, reduce the amount of ice sessions you do to only 1 or 2 per day I think. I think this is debatable, but that's usually what I do. Ice after activities helps as well.

So rest, ice, anti-inflammatories. Also, the hot water from the shower can help it as well. It can also help to ice right after the shower.

If pain persists, go see your doctor. He'll put you on the right track towards getting pain free again.

Once you heal up, don't swing as hard! And really make sure your posture is correct from now on. A lesson could also get you on the right track if it's your swing causing your back pain.

To conclude, I just want to reiterate that this is all speculation. If you're worried something isn't right then just go make a doctor's appointment today. Can't be too cautious with an injury.

[Gopher1000]

Not sure if this type of concern has been posted elsewhere in the forum, but I have been experiencing upper back pain primarily along my spine between my shoulders. It's to the point where the spine is tender and painful if direct force is applied. It has been sort of a chicken-or-the-egg question for me as I have never been sure if it was caused by golf or if golf just irritates it. I have gone to the doctor a couple times and even had an x-ray and blood work done and everything checked out okay. I am wondering if anyone else experiences muscle pain/stiffness in the area near the spine and if there are any good stretches or exercises I can do to help it. Thanks!