Returning to the Fairway: Golf after Hip or Knee Replacement
As an orthopedic surgeon, I often meet patients who love the game of golf—and understandably, they’re concerned about how a hip or knee replacement might affect their ability to keep playing. In fact, one of the most common questions I get from active patients facing joint replacement is: “Will I be able to golf again?”
The good news is: yes, you likely can—and often with less pain and better function than before surgery.
Golf and Joint Replacement: A Natural Fit
Golf is one of the most accessible and enjoyable sports for adults of all ages, especially because it’s low-impact, social, and adaptable. It’s also uniquely popular among those undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Recent studies show:
- Over 90% of golfers return to the course after hip replacement.
- About 70% return after knee replacement.
- The average time to resume playing a full round is 4 to 5 months.
- Many patients start putting or chipping within 6 to 8 weeks.
What Affects the Timeline?
Several factors influence how quickly and successfully you return to golf, including:
- Your age and activity level
- Body weight
- Type of implant and surgical approach
- Pre-existing physical conditioning
- Rehabilitation consistency
Interestingly, your motivation plays a role too. Golfers tend to be highly driven to return to the game, which often leads to faster recovery and improved results.
Hip vs. Knee: What’s the Difference?
- Hip replacements typically restore rotational function well. In fact, the swing biomechanics after THA are often comparable to those of non-operated hips.
- Knee replacements may slightly affect rotational movement in the swing, but most patients adapt easily and do not notice a major difference in their game.
The Anterior Hip Approach: A Potential Advantage
One option I often discuss with active patients undergoing hip replacement is the direct anterior (DA) approach. This technique avoids cutting through major muscles and may allow:
- Faster early recovery
- Less pain
- Earlier return to normal function and recreational activity
In my experience, the anterior approach allows many patients to regain confidence in their motion and stability sooner. For active individuals—including golfers—it may help them get back to the activities they enjoy a bit faster.
While outcomes are excellent with all modern hip replacement techniques, the anterior approach may offer some short-term benefits for those eager to return to the course.
Knee Replacement: All Surgical Approaches Perform Equally
Unlike hip replacement, there isn’t a clear “minimally invasive” approach in total knee arthroplasty that offers better outcomes. Various approaches—such as the medial parapatellar, midvastus, and subvastus techniques—are all commonly used and have been extensively studied.
The takeaway:
Despite the names, no approach has been shown to lead to faster or better recovery in terms of pain, strength, or function. In knee replacement, the best approach is the one your surgeon is most experienced with.
Your outcome depends far more on implant design, alignment, your physical condition, and adherence to rehab than it does on the incision location or technique.
Can I Walk the Course?
Many patients ask if they’ll be able to walk 18 holes again. While it’s possible for many, it’s common and perfectly acceptable to use a golf cart initially, especially in the first few months. Some patients continue using carts long-term, particularly if other joints or back issues are involved.
Will My Game Be the Same?
You might not only return to the game—you may even enjoy it more. Many patients report:
- Less pain during and after play
- Improved consistency
- Better endurance
- A few even see lower handicaps
Of course, every case is unique. Some players experience mild discomfort or need to adapt their swing slightly. That’s where individualized rehab and gradual return-to-play planning becomes important.
Final Thoughts
If golf is a key part of your lifestyle, that’s something we want to preserve. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your expectations, fitness level, and how we can tailor your recovery plan to help you safely return to the game you love.
Joint replacement isn’t the end of your golf story—it’s often the start of a better chapter.
