What are the best exercises for a golfer with artificial hips?
You must take regular exercise. After all, that is one of the reasons for having the operation. Walking and swimming are fine (but avoid breaststroke when swimming). Riding a bicycle may be difficult until about 12 weeks after the operation, as it will be hard to get on and off. Golf or bowls are fine after 12 weeks but bending at the hip to play these sports would be difficult before that. You should avoid running on hard surfaces and activities such as playing squash or competitive tennis, as all of these involve sudden impact which can overload your new hip (‘impact loading’). You should use your new hip – exercise is good for your mind and your body. Within a year of your operation you should have resumed virtually all your normal activities. It is wise always to avoid extremes of movement at the hip and activities which are commonly associated with falling – such as skiing. If you are not sure about a specific activity, ask your surgeon, rheumatologist, GP or physiotherapist. I su
