Making Knee Replacements Last
How Much Stress on Implants?
A 2008 study quantified which activities cause the most stress on knee replacement implants. A handful of patients who required total knee replacement because of severe knee arthritis were outfitted with special knee replacement implants. Embedded inside these implants were pressure sensors that could provide accurate information about when the implants experienced unusual forces and pressure.
The study found, as suspected, that low-impact activities such as stationary bicycling placed very little stress on the knee replacement implants. On the other hand, activities such as running and tennis placed predictably higher stress on the implants. However, there were some surprises—golf placed some of the highest stress on knee replacement implants. Specifically, forces on the leading knee of the golf swing were some of the highest forces tested.
Golf or No Golf?
So the question comes up: should doctors advise their knee replacement patients to avoid golfing? You will have to discuss with your surgeon their specific recommendations as most surgeons don’t advise patients to avoid golf.
Precautions for Returning to Golf
Discuss your return to golf with your doctor and physical therapist. You will likely be advised on how long it should be before you can head to the links.
Rehabilitation takes an average of two to six months, and the average return to golf is five months after surgery. However, every person’s recovery time is different.
A specific recommendation is to protect the knee during your golf swing. If your lead knee had the replacement (the left knee if you golf right-handed) it will sustain a rotational force during the golf swing. At first, you may want to make only short shots or perform half or three-quarters swings at lower swing speeds. You can reduce the torsion by not wearing spikes, or wearing only soft spikes.
Limit the number of holes you play at first. As always, pain should be your cue that your knee has had enough for the day.
Conclusion
Knee replacement implant improvements may help address these concerns, and some particular types of implants may help patients who want to participate in activities that place particular stresses on the knee joint.
There are benefits of golf, including getting exercise, keeping weight down, and improving emotional health. It may be (and often is) worth the possible risk of decreasing implant longevity for knee replacement patients to participate in these activities that bring them fitness and joy.
The flip side of this argument is that stress on implants can also be increased by weight gain. Golf is an activity that keeps people exercising. Getting outside, walking, and moving around are all good for knee replacement patients. If a little golf is what keeps people moving, then perhaps the stress on the implant is worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Should I avoid golf after knee replacement?
- Discuss with your surgeon and physical therapist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
- How long should I wait before returning to golf?
- Rehabilitation takes an average of two to six months, and the average return to golf is five months after surgery. However, every person’s recovery time is different.
- How can I reduce the stress on my knee during golf?
- Consider using soft spikes, making only short shots, or performing half or three-quarters swings at lower swing speeds.
- What are the benefits of golf for knee replacement patients?
- Golf can help with exercise, weight management, and emotional well-being.
