Look at the world's best golfers. Nearly all have long-standing relationships with healthcare providers who understand their unique physical needs.
Golf's greatest secret isn't found in equipment catalogs or swing tutorials. It's in the consistent, personalized care that happens away from the cameras.
When Scottie Scheffler hoisted the Wanamaker Trophy at Quail Hollow this May, claiming his third major championship by a commanding five-stroke margin, few noticed the invisible force behind his physical resilience. But I did.
As a chiropractor who's worked with athletes for decades, I immediately recognized the signs of excellent biomechanical preparation in Scheffler's performance. His ability to recover from a mid-round stumble and finish strong speaks volumes about his physical conditioning.
The secret? A 15-year relationship with his chiropractor, Dr. Troy Van Biezen.
Scheffler began working with Dr. Van Biezen when he was just 14 years old, seeking treatment for back pain during a significant growth spurt. This wasn't a quick fix or temporary solution.
What began as treatment evolved into a comprehensive performance partnership.
I see this pattern with my own patients. The golfers who commit to consistent care invariably outperform those seeking only crisis intervention.
Think about it: your swing creates the same repetitive stresses every time you play. These cumulative effects don't disappear between rounds.
Too many recreational golfers view chiropractic care as something you seek only when injured. This misses the point entirely.
Dr. Van Biezen's approach with Scheffler focuses on building endurance, improving mobility, and enhancing stability. Their goal isn't just pain management but performance optimization.
"Our goal was for him to be physically, mentally and emotionally strong on Thursday morning as he is on Sunday afternoon going down the back nine," explains Dr. Van Biezen.
This is exactly what I tell my golfers. The ability to maintain physical and mental sharpness through 72 holes separates champions from contenders.
What works for one golfer won't necessarily work for another. Scheffler's unique swing created specific challenges for his lower back, prompting Dr. Van Biezen to develop a specialized approach focusing on hip and mid-back mobility.
Their relationship allows for continuous refinement based on intimate knowledge of Scheffler's body.
Scheffler's pre-tournament preparation follows a precise routine. According to reports, Tuesday is functional mobility day, while his pre-round mobility routine is tailored around his tee time.
This level of customization only happens through years of consistent work together.
You don't need to be competing for major championships to benefit from this approach. Here's what I recommend to my golfing patients:
Find a chiropractor who understands golf biomechanics. The specific demands of the golf swing require specialized knowledge.
Commit to regular assessments, not just crisis care. Prevention always outperforms reaction.
Develop personalized pre-round routines that address your specific limitations.
Be patient. The benefits of chiropractic care compound over time, just like investment returns.
Track your performance metrics beyond just score. Note changes in driving distance, recovery between rounds, and late-round fatigue.
What struck me most about Scheffler's PGA Championship victory was his resilience. After squandering a three-stroke lead and falling into a tie at the turn, he found another gear on the back nine.
This mental and physical fortitude doesn't happen by accident.
The long-term chiropractic relationship provides more than just physical benefits. It creates confidence. When you know your body is prepared for the demands of competition, you play with freedom.
This psychological edge might be the most valuable benefit of all.
They've discovered what Scheffler learned at 14: golf performance isn't just about swing mechanics. It's about creating a body that can execute those mechanics consistently under pressure.
Your journey might not lead to a Wanamaker Trophy. But it could lead to your personal best performance, more enjoyable rounds, and a longer playing career.
Isn't that worth the investment? Give us a call today at Deerfield Injury Center and we will get you on the right steps to your golf career.