What is the significance of the injuries to John Locke's right side in Lost?

I was reading the Lost encyclopedia, and it noted that Locke is "plagued by injuries predominately on the right side of his body." I know that the right side of the brain generally controls one's creative and intuitive abilities, but I'm not quite sure I understand why Locke's right side would be injured, when he's one of the most consistent spiritual guides in the show.