I understand the things you are both discussing, and I do believe that is (at least) in part my swing that is affecting my back. I do have a history of back problems through other sports (ski racing, hockey, soccer, running) and do believe that this contributes to the problem. The other issue is that I am not at all flexible, cannot even sit cross-legged, and that this is causing tension within my swing, although I accelerate well through the ball (i.e. active not passive swing which I believe you were discussing). As far as seeing a pro is concerned, I am trying to raise enough cash to do this, shouldn't be too long, and this is mainly for fine tuning my swing and/or game. I do not slice or hook the ball and am definately a long hitter, drive around 280-290 on average (max on level tee is 320). My biggest problem with golf was leaning to trust my swing and not try to kill it as well as a slow, steady backswing, and those were mastered years ago. My swing has a decent rhythm, but can always be improved (and it will be) but for now, I feel my biggest obsticle is flexibility (and putting) and I really wish to improve upon this. Any further, more detailled advice is greatly appreciated.