Golf After A Hip Replacement: Tips for a Smooth Comeback
Returning to golf after a hip replacement is an exciting milestone—and with the right preparation, it can be a safe and rewarding experience. Hip replacement surgery often provides new mobility and freedom from pain, but adjusting back to the course requires careful planning and the right techniques.
This guide offers insights on everything from strengthening exercises to swing adjustments, all designed to help you ease back into the game confidently and safely.
What is a Total Hip Replacement?
A total hip replacement, or hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged hip joint with an artificial implant, designed to relieve hip pain and restore mobility. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals with severe arthritis or hip joint damage, where daily movement is compromised.
Many patients find that a total hip replacement surgery alleviates chronic pain and enables them to resume activities they previously enjoyed, like golf!
The hip joint’s role in your golf swing
The hip joint is an important part of a proper-form golf swing, allowing for smooth rotation, balance, and power. Movements like hip rotation, stability in the lead hip, and internal rotation of the operated hip are essential for generating power and control.
With these mechanics in mind, a safe return to golf often includes changing your swing to help take pressure off the hip joint, helping you feel much more comfortable.
How Long Does it Take to Return to Golf After Hip Replacement Surgery?
Most individuals can consider returning to golf approximately 12 weeks after hip replacement surgery. This timeline varies depending on overall health, surgical approach, and commitment to physical therapy.
We often see patients after hip replacement here at Agile Physical therapy, and we've found that the timing of returning to golfing can vary depending on the individual and the type of hip replacement surgery performed.
During the early weeks of recovery, focus is placed on wound healing and basic mobility. Later, exercises to strengthen and increase hip flexibility are introduced to prepare the body for low-impact activities, such as golf. However, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider or physical therapist to assess your readiness.
What factors influence your recovery timeline?
Several factors influence your recovery timeline, including age, physical fitness level, and adherence to rehabilitation exercises. For example, patients with pre-existing conditions that affect hip mobility or cardiovascular health may require additional time and conditioning before returning to play golf.
A physical therapist can help assess your unique situation and recommend adjustments based on your progress and readiness.
Preparing Your Body: Training and Physical Therapy for a Safe Comeback
How physical therapy helps on your recovery journey
Physical therapy plays a key role in your recovery, helping to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint, restore hip range, and improve flexibility—all of which are essential to a controlled and stable golf swing.
A sports physical therapy program can be tailored to include exercises specifically geared toward golfers, preparing you to return to the course safely and with confidence.
Exercises to improve hip mobility and rotation
Improving hip mobility and rotation is critical to a successful return to golf. Key exercises like hip abductions, bridges, and gentle stretching target the muscles around the hip joint, increasing strength and flexibility.
Cardiovascular exercises, such as cycling or walking, also promote endurance and benefit overall cardiovascular health, which supports stamina on the course.
Core and upper body conditioning
A strong core and upper body are vital to achieving stability and balance, reducing the risk of injury. Conditioning exercises, such as planks, shoulder presses, and rotational movements, build strength in these areas, allowing for an efficient golf swing without overloading the hip.
By focusing on core stability and upper body strength, you can enhance both power and control in your game.
Modifying Your Golf Swing After A Hip Replacement
Swing mechanics and protecting the hip
Modifying your swing mechanics is essential to protect the operated hip. Working with a golf professional or physical therapist can help you adopt a smooth, controlled swing that minimizes strain. Techniques such as maintaining balance, avoiding excessive twisting, and focusing on stability allow for a safer, more comfortable swing.
Hip rotation and the lead leg in your swing
The lead leg and hip rotation are key to generating power and control in a golf swing. For those who’ve had a hip replacement, careful attention to hip rotation and internal rotation ensures movements remain within a comfortable range. Emphasizing stability in the lead leg also helps protect the operated hip and maintain an efficient swing.
Reducing hip pain by adjusting your swing
Swing adjustments can help minimize any residual hip pain. For example, shortening your backswing or focusing on smooth follow-through reduces stress on the hip joint, making it easier to play comfortably. If you experience ongoing hip pain, consult your physical therapist for additional guidance and exercises that may help alleviate discomfort.
What Equipment is Best for Golf After a Hip Replacement?
Choose the right clubs and footwear
The right equipment can facilitate a smoother return to golf after hip surgery. Consider clubs with flexible shafts, which reduce impact and provide a more forgiving feel. Supportive golf shoes can also stabilize hip movements and improve balance on the course, minimizing strain on the hip joint.
Using a golf cart vs. walking the course
Initially, using a golf cart may be advisable, as it reduces fatigue and protects the hip joint. Over time, as strength and endurance improve, gradually walking the course can help you get used to the new joint and with recovery. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion to ensure your recovery remains on track.
Tips for Staying Safe and Comfortable on the Course
Start slow
Begin with shorter sessions to ease back into the game, gradually increasing the length and intensity of your rounds. Avoid the temptation to play a full 18 holes right away; instead, focus on building stamina and comfort over time.
Choose the right equipment
Consider using golf clubs with graphite shafts, which help absorb impact and reduce strain on the hip joint. In the early stages of recovery, using a golf cart can also minimize fatigue, allowing you to focus on enjoying the game without overexerting yourself. However, it's important not to rely on this, and gradually build back strength by exercising the joint.
Warm up
Warming up is key to a successful round, especially after hip replacement. Begin with gentle stretching and exercises recommended by your physical therapist to prepare your hip, legs, and upper body for smooth movement.
Use good technique
Focus on proper swing mechanics, avoiding any excessive twisting of the hip joint. A wider stance can enhance stability, and limiting weight shifts from one side to the other helps protect your hip while promoting a controlled, comfortable swing.
Rest as needed
Listen to your body and take breaks as needed throughout the game. If you experience any pain or discomfort, pause immediately and give yourself time to rest. Prioritizing recovery helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable return to the course.
Stay hydrated
Proper hydration supports joint health and overall endurance. Make sure to drink water before, during, and after your game to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days or during longer sessions on the course.
Summing up:
Nothing quite beats the feeling of returning to the game you love. By focusing on safe recovery practices, tailored physical therapy, and practical adjustments on the course, you can protect your hip while enjoying each swing. Remember, taking a gradual approach and consulting with a professional along the way will set you up for a rewarding, sustainable return to golf.
About the Golf Team Lead:
Johnson is originally from the East Coast. He has over six years of dedicated outpatient orthopedic physical therapy experience, working at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates in Boston, Massachusetts. He also has experience in private practice, home health care, and collegiate sports. He is dedicated to furthering his education and regularly attends nationwide courses and conferences on orthopedics, spine care, manual therapy, and blood flow restriction training.
Johnson initially experienced physical therapy as a patient when recovering from an ACL tear in his knee. He is passionate about physical medicine and the process of restoring function. He has advanced experience in manual therapy and progressive resistance exercise.
Johnson is excited to explore California with his wife. In his free time, he loves to read non-fiction, cook Italian and Vietnamese food, and weight train. Johnson also enjoys working with Spanish and Mandarin Chinese-speaking patients.
Johnson Chu Certifications & Specialities:
- PT – Physical Therapist
- DPT – Doctor of Physical Therapy
- TPI- Titleist Level 1 & 2 Certification
- SFMA- Selective Functional Movement Assessment