Rehabilitation and treatment of a recreational golfer with hip osteoarthritis: a case report.

This case study reviews the conservative chiropractic treatment of hip osteoarthritis (OA) and the prescription of a rehabilitation program for a recreational golfer. A 49-year-old registered nurse/ college instructor presented with a five year history of left hip OA and pain, recent right hip pain and occasional low back stiffness. Once her symptoms improved, a golf-specific functional rehabilitation program was prescribed in preparation for the upcoming golf season. The initial treatment included ultrasound, soft tissue and myofascial therapy, mobilizations, acupuncture and home advice. Rehabilitative exercises included core and scapular stability exercises, general conditioning, golf specific stretches, functional swinging, proprioceptive and strengthening exercises, and referral to a swing coach. The positive outcomes included increased ranges of motion, decreased pain, as well as improvements in golf driving distance and endurance. Conservative management and golf-specific rehabilitation prescription appears to be beneficial for hip OA and recreational golf performance in this case.

J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2012 Sep;56(3):201-8. Howell ER. Ashbridge's Health Centre, 1522 Queen St. East, Toronto, ON M4L 1E3. E-mail: dremilyhowell@hotmail.com