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Total joint replacement and golf
W J Mallon1, R A Liebelt, J B Mason
1Triangle Orthopaedic Associates, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
Clinics in Sports Medicine
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Active golfers can continue playing after total joint replacement. Studies suggest golf does not significantly increase symptoms or implant revision rates for hip, knee, or shoulder replacements.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Sports medicine
- Biomechanical analysis
Background:
- The impact of golf on artificial joints is not well-documented.
- Patients often inquire about resuming athletic activities post-surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the safety and feasibility of golf participation after total joint replacement.
- To assess the effect of golf on implant longevity and patient symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on exercise and joint replacement.
- Survey of orthopedic surgeons specializing in joint replacement.
- Analysis of data from active golfers with joint replacements.
Main Results:
- Golf appears to be a safe activity for patients with total hip, knee, or shoulder replacements.
- No significant increase in symptoms or implant revision rates was observed in active golfers.
- Expert opinions support the possibility of continued golf participation.
Conclusions:
- Total joint replacement patients can likely continue golfing without adverse effects.
- Further research could provide more definitive characterization of golf's long-term effects.
- This finding supports patient engagement in desired physical activities post-orthopedic surgery.