Establishing normative flexibility values for the thoracic spine of competitive male South African golfers

Abstract

Background: The golf swing involves complex, multi-joint movements that require flexibility, strength, and power. However, there is limited research on thoracic spine flexibility norms among competitive male golfers in South Africa.

Objectives: This study aimed to establish thoracic spine flexibility values and compare the movements on the left and right sides.

Methods: Ninety-eight male golfers aged 18 and older with no spine or hip injuries participated in this descriptive, comparative, and quantitative study. Thoracic spine movements, including flexion, extension, lateral flexion, rotation, and kyphosis, were measured using the EasyAngle.

Results: Average values for thoracic kyphosis were 33.6°±9.7°, flexion 32.5°±11.7°, and extension 50.2°±16.4°. Left rotation averaged 36.6°±9.8° and right rotation 38.8°±10.5°, with a significant difference between the two sides (-2.2°±9.5°; p=0.024). No significant difference was found for lateral flexion. Thoracic flexion showed a weak positive correlation with left rotation and right lateral flexion, while thoracic extension had a strong correlation with thoracic flexion ROM. Excessive thoracic flexion predicted limited extension.

Conclusion: These normative values enhance understanding of thoracic spine flexibility among South African golfers and provide a reference for biokineticists to tailor training programs to improve flexibility, reduce injury risk, and optimise performance.