Total Joint Arthroplasty and Golf Play: Analysis of Regional Golf Handicap Database

BACKGROUND As the numbers of senior golfers increase, many will consider a hip or knee joint replacement (JR) over their lifetime. The relationship of JR to the rate of return and validated level of play has not been well defined. METHODS A regional golf association's membership was mailed a questionnaire regarding their JR. Members with valid Golf Handicap Information Network numbers and with at least five pre- and post-JR scores were included. Prospectively collected rounds of play and handicap differentials were used for the analysis. RESULTS Two hundred fifty-one members reported having a JR, with 120 qualifying for the analysis. The sites of JR include 50 hips (41.7%) and 70 kness (58.3%). Plays per month after the first JR increased from 5.2 to 5.6 (P = 0.017). Handicap differentials increased from an average of 15.8 to 17.3 (P < 0.0001). Average return to play was 62 days. Twenty-eight players who had a second JR saw an increase in plays per month from 4.2 to 6.3 (P = 0.0074) and an increase in handicap differentials from 19.3 to 20.2 (P = 0.0036). CONCLUSIONS After the initial JR, amateur golfers will likely play more frequently; however, the level of play will typically decrease slightly. The same effects are seen after a subsequent JR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV: retrospective, cross-sectional review.