Billiards: How to Avoid Back and Neck Injuries When Playing the Game

While billiards players may not be jumping from tall heights, running at high speeds, and engaging in strenuous body contact with other athletes, they are at high risks for injuries. The most common injuries are often to the back and neck.

Because of the static strains caused by holding awkward body positions (e.g., head tilted up with unnatural posture of the back and neck), more pressure and stress are placed on certain parts of the body. The most commonly affected areas are the base of the spine and the lower part of the upper spine; specifically, their discs.

The injuries to the back and neck are caused by repetitive strain, which are more common in billiards players who practice 6-7 hours a day or who play in long matches. The abnormal postures that snooker players are required to adopt during practice and play adds to the strain. Billiards players are also at a higher risk for ankylosing spondylitis, an inflammatory autoimmune disease.

But there is a silver lining. Billiards players can reduce the risks for developing back and neck problems by adopting the following measures.

First, keep a fit and healthy body by exercising. Stronger muscles, bones and joints are more adept at protecting the most vulnerable parts of the body, such as the spinal discs. Simple stretching exercises, when done regularly and properly, will provide significant benefits not only in flexibility but also in reduced risks for injuries.

Tip: Focus on exercises that strengthen core stability especially the muscles around the abdomen, pelvis and lower back as well as the diaphragm. Yoga or Pilates classes will do the trick.

Second, break up your practice sessions. Instead of playing for six hours straight in a day, break it up into two or three parts – two hours each session – so that your body gets a break from the stress.

Third, avoid prolonged adoption of awkward body postures. Better yet, always be conscious about the proper body posture with each shot, which will not only make for a more effective shot but also for reduced risks for repetitive stress injuries.

And when you start feeling the symptoms of a sports injury, be sure to consult with your Healthpointe doctor at the Colton clinic, which is accessible to Rialto, Bloomington, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Highgrove, and Grand Terrace residents, too.

For effective management of sports injuries, come to the Corona Healthpointe clinic, which also accepts patients from the Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley areas.

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Corona, which is conveniently located by Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.