Practice behaviors, attitudes, musculoskeletal complaints, and previous exposure to chiropractic care in a group of recreational golfers.

Objective: This study investigates the practice behaviors, attitudes, musculoskeletal complaints, and previous exposure to chiropractic care in a group of recreational golfers.

Methods: A survey study was conducted on recreational golfers who were attending an annual golf show at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minn. Northwestern Health Sciences University established a booth at the annual golf show and recruited subjects from this site. Four hundred two subjects completed the survey form. Of the 402 subjects, 4 of 5 respondents were male and 90% are of working age, with 19 subjects younger than 20 years and 26 subjects older than 60 years.

Results: For almost 90% of subjects surveyed, golf is played at least 3 times per week, mostly for social interaction. Most subjects transport their own golf bags under their own power, and almost 90% wear spike golf shoes, most of the metal variety. Approximately half of the subjects reported having received chiropractic care in the past, and virtually all reported having positive experiences with the care they received. Many subjects reported musculoskeletal complaints that they commonly experienced, and 1 in 8 reported having been previously injured on the golf course. Half of the subjects exercise regularly to maintain a level of conditioning, and half expressed an interest in attending a specific golf fitness program.

Conclusion: This study provides the health care provider with more knowledge about this group of golfers. Knowledge of the most common musculoskeletal complaints provides an opportunity to identify and subsequently address the associated risk factors.