My wife and I play golf every month. Last week when I swung, I felt a sudden pain in my back. Please explain how golf can cause back pain and the treatment. How can I prevent it next time?

Golf is popular with many people these days. However, some golfers may suffer back pain and this can for several reasons.

1. Back muscle strain: This is caused by over-stretching the side and back muscles when the tissues are not ready for the motion. Golfers who play without a thorough warm-up or first stretching tend to suffer. The pain or strain comes 4-6 hours after the game and is felt more when you move though there is usually no leg muscle numbness or weakness.

2. Back sprain or tendonitis: The causes of this type of back pain are the same as above but in this case, it's chronic. The pain is not severe but lasts for a long period and is marked by frequent recurrences.

3. Herniated lumbar disc: A sharp back pain may be felt as you are bending down to make a shot, study the line or pick up the ball, and may spread to one or both legs. Leg muscle numbness or weakness may also occur if the nerves along the spine are pinched.

Treatment:

The treatment varies according to condition.

For back pain without leg pain, numbness and weakness, rest for a day, apply ice and take paracetamol.

If pain persists, consult a doctor.

He'll probably prescribe medication and a rehabilitation programme.

A patient with pinched spinal nerves or other     symptoms may require surgery.

Prevention:

Warm up and stretch     thoroughly before beginning play.