Methods of spinal posture analysis in the golf swing: A scoping review

Posture is considered an important principle for golf performance and injury risk. “Poor posture” is often associated with undesirable swing mechanics and is suggestive to be causative of low back pain within golf. However, the measurement of spinal posture appears to be inconsistent. This scoping review aimed to identify, summarise and evaluate the methods used to quantify spinal posture during the golf swing and to make recommendations for future research. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and searching electronic databases, 50 papers met all inclusion criteria. Across the 50 papers, substantial heterogeneity was observed in both spinal modelling and measurement methods. Twenty-nine distinct spinal models were identified, subcategorised as multi-segmental, vector-based, and qualitative methods. Most studies modelled the spine using two rigid segments (thorax and pelvis), using a range of segment definitions. Vector-based and qualitative approaches, largely derived from coaching practice, provided limited anatomical validity. The current research within spinal posture fails to capture spinal curvature. In addition, the lack of methodological consistency limits comparison across studies. As such, any inferences made between “poor posture” and the links this has to undesirable swing mechanics and low back pain are questionable. Recommendations are made regarding the modelling of the spine to guide future research.