Back pain - is bowling out of the question?

Back pain - is bowling out of the question?

If you suffer from back pain, there are certain sports you may want to participate in that may increase the risk of the problem getting worse. Certain risky sports that you would consider high-intensity sports are soccer and gymnastics. These types involve a lot of intense twisting and bending, which puts extreme pressure on the spine.

Bowling is not a high-intensity sport, so you would consider it a low-risk sport. However, certain bowling techniques can put a lot of strain on your spinal area. For this reason, bowling is considered a medium-risk sport when back pain occurs.

Certain bowling techniques have the effect of twisting your spine as you roll the ball forward. As you roll the ball, both your upper body and lower body rotate in opposite directions. There is also risk in how you carry the ball. Bowling balls are quite heavy and holding them with your arm outstretched also puts pressure on your back.

If you want to continue bowling and understand the risks involved, you can follow these guidelines to avoid further problems with your back.

• As they say, it's all in technique and when it comes to bowling, your technique is very important. Speak to a professional bowler who has the experience and knowledge to help you develop better throwing technique.

• Bowling balls can be very heavy. If you have a weak back, it is important not to use a ball that is too heavy for you. It is also important that you hold the ball correctly and position your fingers securely in the holes so that you can release the ball in a smooth motion.

• It's a good idea to do strength training exercises that strengthen your upper and lower body. If your back muscles are weak, they cannot effectively support and protect the spine. This makes your spine more susceptible to injury because it is less able to withstand the pressure and stress placed on it.

• After a back injury, consider additional support for your back. This can be in the form of a corset. This can provide additional support for your spine and back muscles. It also has the added benefit of reminding you why you're wearing it. This makes you more aware and careful when bowling.

Always consult a doctor if you have a medical condition before attempting any new exercises.

Inspired by Bill Weller