Total hip arthroplasty and the golfer - A study of participation and performance before and after surgery for osteoarthritis

Many patients who undergo total hip arthroplasty still have a high level of activity. A popular low-intensity exercise in this patient group is golf. This study sought to investigate the group of patients who have had a hip arthroplasty procedure and who list golf as one of their pastimes, assessing the impact Of Surgery on their ability to participate in and perform at the game. Seven hundred fifty consecutive patients who had undergone total hip arthroplasty were sent questionnaires relating to their golfing habits. There was no significant change from their predisease state to their 1-year postoperative golf performance and level of participation. Harris hip scores were significantly higher for the golfing population both preoperatively and at all stages of follow-up.