Arizona's First Spine Lab Launches to Combat Golf-Related Back Pain
A groundbreaking spine research facility is opening in Arizona to address the prevalent issue of back pain in golf. The Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab, established with $1 million in funding, will be the first of its kind in the state.
Back injuries plague both amateur and professional golfers, affecting approximately 55% of pros and 35% of amateurs. Notable players like Tiger Woods, Fred Couples, Jason Day, Will Zalatoris, and Hideki Matsuyama have all struggled with back issues throughout their careers.
Barrow Neurological Institute
The lab's primary objectives include:
- Studying the biometrics of modern golf swings
- Developing science-backed treatment guidelines
- Determining safe return-to-play protocols
- Evaluating swing biomechanics across all skill levels
Led by neurosurgeon Dr. Randall Porter and spine specialist Dr. Scott Kreiner, the facility will utilize state-of-the-art analytical equipment to study how swing mechanics contribute to back pain. "Almost all my golf patients have the same question after surgery or therapy for their back pain: 'When can I get back to my game?'" says Dr. Porter. "The Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab intends to answer that question."
The initial funding came from the inaugural Barrow Open tournament at TPC Scottsdale, presented by PXG with support from the Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation. Bob Parsons, founder of PXG and the foundation, emphasizes that "Innovation in golf isn't just about the clubs we create; it's about empowering every golfer to achieve their best performance."
This research initiative represents a significant step forward in understanding and treating golf-related back injuries, potentially benefiting players at all levels of the sport.