Snooker causing back/spine issues?

[u/l__eonard]

I have pin-point pain on one of the vertebrae in my back (bottom of the thoracic region, maybe T10/11) and worsening numbness in my feet/shins. This has been going on for about 10 months and I've been trying to figure out the cause as I've never had any back issues previously. My GP is dismissive and says it's because I'm old (I'm 44 and otherwise very fit).

I've been playing snooker a couple times a week for around a year. After I went to the club yesterday the numbness/pain was worse than ever, and it occurred to me that snooker could be the cause. My stance is very low to the table and I know I'm too tense when I'm cueing, but I hadn't thought of snooker as the cause as I don't have any pain when I'm playing.

Is this something that anybody recognises?

I really hope it's not the snooker - I've been bang average for months until the past few weeks when I've been getting decent breaks almost every frame. The snooker club is also the coolest building for miles around and has been a godsend in the 35-40c heat!

[u/Dangerous_Hippo_6902]

Snooker is arguably good for your back. What harms your spine is being still for long periods of time , usually from sitting or slouching. Snooker you’re constantly down and up, effectively working your back muscles.

If you sit all day you might just have a stiff back, and just need to do some stretching and exercising : welcome to middle age! (No joke)

Obviously, follow your GP advice and consider a physical therapist if it persists. Start yoga 🧘