Welcome to the fourth part of our series on the science and biomechanics of the golf swing. We're delving into the Ball Impact to Horizontal Club Position - Early Follow Through phase, particularly for right-handed golfers. This phase is prone to injuries, often due to the heightened activation of wrist flexors just before impact and the risk of striking objects.
In this phase, right-handed golfers need to:
Slow down trunk rotation after impact.
Keep the pectoralis major muscles engaged.
It's important to note that during ball impact, the right subscapularis and left infraspinatus muscles are key in controlling arm movements, adding complexity to this phase.
Article Index
The Primary Anatomical Structures Involved in Phase 4
For right-handed golfers grappling with Phase #4 of the golf swing (Ball Impact to Horizontal Club Position - Early Follow Through), it's vital to examine and address these anatomical structures, each playing a pivotal role in golf biomechanics:
Bilateral Pectoralis Major:
Role: Control the follow-through motion of the arms and shoulders.
Visual Clues: Dysfunctional pectoralis major muscles may lead to an unbalanced follow-through, impacting clubface control and accuracy.
Right Subscapularis:
Role: Crucial for shoulder stability during the follow-through, supporting internal rotation of the right shoulder.
Visual Clues: Inadequate activation can result in difficulties in decelerating the arm and maintaining a consistent swing plane, potentially increasing the risk of injuries.
Left Infraspinatus:
Role: Assists in external rotation and stabilization of the left shoulder during the follow-through.
Visual Clues: If not properly engaged, it may lead to a less controlled motion and excess stress on the shoulder joint.
Right Abdominal Oblique:
Role: Engaged during the early follow-through, aiding in trunk rotation.
Visual Clues: Inadequate activation can affect posture and control during the transition from ball impact to the horizontal club position, potentially impacting the swing's efficiency.
Right Gluteus Medius:
Role: Contributes to trunk rotation during the early follow-through phase.
Visual Clues: Dysfunction in this muscle may hinder the smooth transition from the impact phase to the follow-through, affecting overall swing performance.
Left Biceps Femoris (Long Head):
Role: Helps maintain lower body stability during the early follow-through.
Visual Clues: Ineffective activation may lead to difficulties in transferring force efficiently, impacting the swing's momentum.
Left Vastus Lateralis:
Role: Contributes to lower body stability and balance during the early follow-through.
Visual Clues: Issues with this muscle can affect the golfer's ability to maintain a solid base and execute a smooth transition from impact to the follow-through phase.
Motion Specific Release (MSR)
When encountering difficulties in Phase 4 of the golf swing, specifically during the Ball Impact to Horizontal Club Position - Early Follow Through, Motion Specific Release (MSR) procedures offer a valuable remedy. MSR is a hands-on manual approach strategically employed to alleviate restrictions within the anatomical structures pertinent to particular aspects of the swing.
For golfers grappling with Phase 4 concerns, the primary emphasis should center on addressing the muscles discussed earlier. Furthermore, it's imperative to assess the mobility of essential joints, including the neck, shoulder, spine, and hips, as these joints wield significant influence over the execution of the golf swing.
Phase 4 - MSR Treatment Demonstration
In the following video, Dr. Abelson showcases effective MSR techniques designed to release common restrictions encountered in Phase 4 of the golf swing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we've explored the science behind the golf swing's Ball Impact to Horizontal Club Position - Early Follow Through phase, particularly for right-handed golfers. This phase, essential for success, is also prone to injuries due to wrist flexor activation just before impact. To navigate it effectively, golfers must manage trunk rotation and maintain pectoralis major muscle engagement while considering the intricate roles of the right subscapularis and left infraspinatus muscles during ball impact.
Furthermore, we've identified the crucial anatomical structures at play in Phase 4, elucidating their roles and potential visual cues of dysfunction. These structures are instrumental in maintaining control, stability, and accuracy during the early follow-through phase. Recognizing imbalances or restrictions within these muscles or joints can profoundly impact the golf swing's efficiency. To address Phase 4 challenges, Motion Specific Release (MSR) procedures provide a tailored solution aimed at releasing restrictions within specific anatomical structures. By addressing these issues and assessing joint mobility in key areas like the neck, shoulder, spine, and hips, golfers can enhance their swing execution and enjoy a safer and more effective golfing experience.
DR. BRIAN ABELSON DC. - The Author
Dr. Abelson's approach in musculoskeletal health care reflects a deep commitment to evidence-based practices and continuous learning. In his work at Kinetic Health in Calgary, Alberta, he focuses on integrating the latest research with a compassionate understanding of each patient's unique needs. As the developer of the Motion Specific Release (MSR) Treatment Systems, he views his role as both a practitioner and an educator, dedicated to sharing knowledge and techniques that can benefit the wider healthcare community. His ongoing efforts in teaching and practice aim to contribute positively to the field of musculoskeletal health, with a constant emphasis on patient-centered care and the collective advancement of treatment methods.
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