how long before you can play golf after a laminectomy

The most common recommended time for return to golf was 4–8 weeks after lumbar laminectomy

and lumbar microdiscectomy, 2–3 months after anterior cervical fusion, and 6 months after lumbar fusion.

Full Answer

When can I play golf after lumbar laminectomy?

Results: the most common recommended time for return to golf was 4-8 weeks after lumbar laminectomy and lumbar microdiscectomy, 2-3 months after anterior cervical fusion, and 6 months after lumbar fusion.

How long does it take to get back into golf after surgery?

The point is to gradually get back in the game as opposed to jumping into a full 18 holes. By three months after surgery (or longer if you’ve had a lumbar fusion), you may typically return to your long game.

Can you play golf after spinal fusion surgery?

Researchers at Rush University Medial Center conducted a 4-year study on patients who had spinal fusion surgery. All patients reported playing recreational golf regularly. What researchers found is that 65 percent of amateur golfers played the game within a year after their spinal fusion procedure.

How soon can I play golf after a tummy tuck?

It is important for patients to understand that endurance must be regained prior to embarking on a full round of eighteen holes. Usually by 16 weeks after surgery patients can return to a full round of golf.

How long after laminectomy Can I golf?

Results. The most common recommended time for return to golf was 4–8 weeks after lumbar laminectomy and lumbar microdiscectomy, 2–3 months after anterior cervical fusion, and 6 months after lumbar fusion.

Can you play golf after lumbar surgery?

The first question many patients ask regarding golf is 'When can I get back on the course? ' In general, if you had a simple lumbar discectomy or a cervical procedure, you may golf again in about six weeks. If you underwent a lumbar fusion, you may be braced for three months, so the return is delayed to that time.

Can I play sports after a laminectomy?

Following decompression surgery, you should refrain from heavy lifting for six weeks. You can start back to cardiovascular conditioning at three to four weeks, and can start physical therapy about one month after surgery. With good progress in physical therapy, a return to sports can be expected at three to six months.

How do you swing a golf club after back surgery?

Additional tips:For golfers just returning to the game after an injury or surgery, consider reducing the swing length.Limit internal hip rotation to reduce stress to the lower back. ... Enter and exit a bunker from its lowest, most even side.Maintain good posture.More items...

Will playing golf make spinal stenosis worse?

A diagnosis of spinal stenosis can be emotionally devastating to a passionate golfer, especially if the condition affects the lower back or lumbar region. No matter what your ability level is, any golf swing causes substantial physical stress to the lumbar spine.

How long after an epidural can I play golf?

Wait a full 24 hours after the injection to get back to your full range of daily activities. You should not be afraid just to rest and remain mostly still as you recover from the epidural, but you do want to move around every once in a while.

How soon after laminectomy can I exercise?

When to Start Physical Therapy. In general, you should expect to start physical therapy 4 to 6 weeks after your lumbar laminectomy or discectomy. If there were any post-operative complications like infection or excessive bleeding, then you may need to wait a bit longer.

How long after back surgery can you play sports?

With major back surgery, you should be prepared for physical therapy and doctor's care for at least 4-6 months before you are cleared to return to sports.

Can I lift weights after laminectomy?

If you also had spinal fusion with your laminectomy, your recovery time will likely be longer -- from two to four months. Your doctor may not advise a return to full activities involving lifting and bending for two to three months.

How do I strengthen my back for golf?

These 3 Exercises Will Keep Your Back Safe on the Golf CoursePlanks. For a tour-ready core, we recommend one exercise over all others: the plank. ... Seated Rotations. This exercise can help limber up your lumbar spine and keep your back safe as you follow through on every swing. ... Glute Bridges. ... Take Care of Your Spine.

How do I protect my back in golf?

Tips for Protecting Your Back on the Golf CourseRaise your front heel during the backswing. ... Form an "I" between your hips and shoulders. ... Shorten the backswing to decrease the rotational and side bending movements on the lower back.Stand closer to the golf ball.More items...

How do I stop my back from hurting when I play golf?

5 EASY TIPS TO PREVENT OR REDUCE BACK PAIN DUE TO GOLFING:Warm-Up Properly. Studies have shown that golfers who have stiffer back rotation and less joint range of motion have more back pain. ... Improve Your Swing Mechanics. ... Maintain Neutral Spine Positioning. ... Strengthen Your Core. ... Don't Try to Play Like a Pro.

How can I play golf with a bad back?

For the millions of people who have long-standing low back pain, golf can still be an enjoyable sport....Modify the Golf SwingStand closer to the ball.Keep the backswing short, to help reduce the load on the back. ... Rotate the head slightly, with the nose aligning over the right foot, rather than keeping the head still.

How long after herniated disc can I golf?

Usually by 16 weeks after surgery patients can return to a full round of golf. If a patient at any time experiences a flare-up of symptoms they should put their regimen on hold for at least 4 weeks and then begin back at step 1 with strength and flexibility exercises.

Can you play golf with bulging disc?

Depending on how severe the condition is, disc herniations can make it almost impossible for you to maintain a good posture in your golf swing, let alone perform the movement without compensations.

Is lumbar discectomy major surgery?

Discectomy is a common but major surgery with significant risks and potential complications. You may have less invasive treatment options.

How long after spine surgery can you carry golf clubs?

Also, carrying golf clubs after spine surgery should be avoided for at least three months, so consider investing in a cart or caddie. Rain is a no-go. Weather always plays a role in a golf game, though those recovering from back or neck surgery need to take extra care.

What to watch out for after spine surgery?

The main red flag to watch out for when golfing after spine surgery is pain. If your back or neck hurts, don’t ignore it. Give yourself the rest you need before golfing again. The transition back to a full game of golf should be done slowly and thoughtfully after a spine procedure.

How long does it take to golf after lumbar discectomy?

In general, if you had a simple lumbar discectomy or a cervical procedure, you may golf again in about six weeks. If you underwent a lumbar fusion, you may be braced for three months, so the return is delayed to that time. Regardless of the type of surgery, I first recommend physical therapy before returning to the short and medium game.

How long does it take to get back into golf after lumbar fusion?

The point is to gradually get back in the game as opposed to jumping into a full 18 holes. By three months after surgery (or longer if you’ve had a lumbar fusion), you may typically return to your long game.

Why do you put a tee off last?

The reason I suggest tee offs last is the tee shot is the most demanding on your back—a strong swing can put a lot of pressure on your facet joints and low back. When you are ready for tee shots, hold back on the power of your stroke (for example, give 5% instead of 100% of your energy). Golf involves bending and twisting, ...

What is golf bending?

Golf involves bending and twisting, motions that impact all areas of your spine. Before playing a full round, perhaps spend some time at the putting green or driving range (again, not going full force while teeing off).

Can you drink alcohol after spine surgery?

Nix the alcohol if you’re on pain pills. You may prefer an alcoholic beverage with your golf game, but drinking after spine surgery comes with major safety risks. Alcohol and pain pills don’t mix, so avoid alcohol if you’re on pain medication. Also, excessive alcohol consumption (even without spine surgery) can be dangerous when driving a golf cart.

How long after cervical fusion can I play golf?

The most common recommended time for return to golf was 4–8 weeks after lumbar laminectomy and lumbar microdiscectomy, 2–3 months after anterior cervical fusion, and 6 months after lumbar fusion. The results showed a statistically significant increase in the recommended time to resume golf after lumbar fusion than after cervical fusion in all patients (p < 0.01). The same holds true for the return to play after cervical fusion compared with either lumbar laminectomy or lumbar microdiscectomy for all golfer types (p < 0.01). There was a statistically significant shorter recommended time for professional and college golfers compared with noncompetitive golfers after lumbar fusion (p < 0.01), anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (p < 0.01), and lumbar microdiscectomy (p < 0.01).

Can I play golf after spine surgery?

The return to golf after spine surgery depends on many variables, including the general well-being of patients in terms of pain control and comfort when golfing. This survey serves as a guide that can assist medical practitioners in telling patients the average times recommended by surgeons across North America regarding return to golf after spine surgery.

What is the impact of golf swings on the spine?

The golf swing imparts a tremendous amount of stress to the lumbar spine. This is related to the torque that is generated in the windup and follow through of a long iron or wood shot. Injuries to the lower spine are quite common in both amateur and professional golf.

What are the two most common surgeries performed on the lumbar spine?

In general, the two most common operations performed on the lumbar spine are discectomy and lumbar fusion operations . These two procedures vary greatly in terms of the length of recovery and how quickly one can return to sports activities.

How to practice golf?

Important Points to Remember. 1. Always warm-up and warm-down with stretching exercises prior to any round of golf or range practice. 2. Move your ball out of angled lies, thick rough, and pot bunkers rather than take the shot. 3.

How long after surgery can you do flexibility?

Typically, if a patient is experiencing a good recovery they can begin flexibility and strength training for their low back and abdominal muscles at about four weeks after surgery. These exercises should be supervised by a physical therapist that understands the mechanics of the golf swing.

How long after surgery can you play golf?

It is important for patients to understand that endurance must be regained prior to embarking on a full round of eighteen holes. Usually by 16 weeks after surgery patients can return to a full round of golf. If a patient at any time experiences a flare-up of symptoms they should put their regimen on hold for at least 4 weeks ...

Can you hit the ball fat after lumbar discectomy?

The point is when they are recovering, they have to avoid hitting the ball fat which can result in a re-injury.”. Regis W. Haid, Jr., M.D., a neurosurgeon at Atlanta Brain and Spine Care, also imparts several rules to his patients when they return to golf after lumbar discectomy.

What is the procedure called when you have a narrow spine?

Laminectomy is a surgery that relieves pressure on your spinal cord and nerves. This medical procedure, also called decompression surgery, can relieve the symptoms of a too narrow spine including pain, numbness, tingling and burning.

What is the procedure to remove the lamina?

A laminectomy removes the lamina, or back part of the vertebra covering your spinal canal. This procedure enlarges the spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves that occurs from a narrowed spine, or spinal stenosis. A laminectomy can be performed on your neck area, mid-back area or the lower-back portion of your spine.

What is spinal fusion?

A spinal fusion connects, or permanently fuses, your vertebra together using bone grafts, metal rods or screws. Recovery and exercise restriction times depend on whether or not a spinal fusion was performed. Advertisement.

Where is a laminectomy performed?

A laminectomy can be performed on your neck area, mid-back area or the lower-back portion of your spine. If two or more of your vertebra have separated, you may also need another procedure called a spinal fusion. A spinal fusion connects, or permanently fuses, your vertebra together using bone grafts, metal rods or screws.

How to get a sprite?

Stand up tall as if someone is pulling up up on a string, attached to the top of your head. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and down toward your back pockets. Pull your chin back slightly — your ears should be directly over your shoulders.

How to get a neutral spine?

One of the first things you will learn is how to find a neutral spine. You can do this exercise in sitting or standing, depending on what is more comfortable for you. Sit or stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Tighten your ab muscles as if you are pulling your belly button back toward your spine.

Can you bend your back after a laminectomy?

Your doctor will restrict your exercise after laminectomy back surgery — you must not bend, twist, push, pull or lift objects more than five pounds, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. However, you can lift light objects by using your thigh muscles to bend your knees as long as you keep your back straight.

How long after spinal fusion can you play golf?

What researchers found is that 65 percent of amateur golfers played the game within a year after their spinal fusion procedure. Moreover, within 12 months after surgery, 75 percent played as much golf as they did before surgery- some even more so – and 80 percent improved their handicap.

How many people play golf in 2017?

Golf is one of the most popular recreational sports in the world with more than 25 million people in the United States playing in 2017. Other studies show 18 to 54 percent of those who play will experience an injury to their lower back at some point in their lives.

Can lumbar fusion surgery help golf?

Lumbar fusion surgery is an avenue of relief for some people. However, they are afraid it will affect their performance or, worse, prevent them from playing the game at all. A recent study, however, shows spinal fusion surgery may improve their golf game not hamper it.

Did Tiger Woods have a spinal fusion?

Spinal fusion has given professional golfer Tiger Woods another chance. Last year, Woods underwent an anterior lumbar interbody fusion. It was the fourth surgery performed on his spine. In March, nearly a year after the spinal fusion, Woods has shown glimmers of a comeback.

Can golfers get back injuries?

Recreational golfers who focus on stretching and exercise during the week, can reduce the chances of developing a golf related back injury. In contrast, professional golfers are in peak physical condition and have mastered the mechanics of the game resulting in fewer injuries.

Can golf put pressure on your back?

Poor golf swing mechanics can also put pressure on the back. Theses forces exert a tremendous amount of force – about 8 times the bodyweight – on the lumbar spine when swinging a golf club. The degree in which the body bends and over rotates when swinging a golf club can cause lower back pain or make it worse.

Can you play golf again after surgery?

A common question patients ask is when they can return to playing recreational sports, such as golf, again. The answer, of course, varies from patient to patient. Following post-surgical guidelines and physical therapy can help to speed recovery and improve flexibility and movement.

mcotter

I have a couple disc that needs to be fused, buut am not willing to have in done yet. Low lumbar region. I am however, going to have a partial laminectomy (trimming of a disc to relieve pressure from the nerve). Curious if any of you have had the same issues and how long you were on the sideline and unable to play golf.

Clambake

I had a full laminectomy at T12 to biopsy a lesion in my spinal cord last December. It took about a month to be able to really start bending and twisting a bit, and I started swinging a club again in February about 8 weeks after surgery with another week to start feeling like I had a golf swing again.

ibigler

A buddy on mine had back surgery late last year. He still has some discomfort if he turns a certain way. Long story short, he was invited by his girlfriend to go play with her and her father at Trump National. Supposedly there is a large outdoor dining area looking over the first tee box.

65withatriple

I ruptured l4/l5 in 2004. Was in severe pain for a year and a half and couldn't play golf or participate any physical activity. After seeing 4 ortho's I decided I was willing to risk surgery. Had a microdiscectomy. Walked a pain free mile the day after. Had to wait 6 more months for my first round of golf and shot 74.

luggage

I am recovering from a lamenectomy L4/L5 on March 1 2012. Things going pretty well. Stretching is CRITICAL. I am just getting back to swinging the club and I guess it's not too bad. It does impair my ability to make a full swing without fear of doing damage. I have two Medicus clubs (driver and 5 iron) and they help me with consistent motion.

joekelly

Had a double laminectomy, L3/5, 6 yrs ago and have had no problems at all and can still do all my yoga postures. Except last month i had a total knee replacement so now am in rehab but can still swing the club but walking slow and painful and probably will be for some months. Thank you Medicare.

luggage

JML:yuck back surgery how old are you guys?......Longevity offers rewards and challenges. Just pray you get the opportunity.

How to stop low back pain from golf?

See Preventing Low Back Pain from Golf. Finally, most doctors stress that if your leg pain or other symptoms flare up, take a break from golf for at least a few weeks and return to gentle strengthening and stretching exercises.

How to help lower back pain?

Warm up carefully and thoroughly with gentle stretching. This will encourage nutrient-rich blood to flow into the muscles in and around your back, which will help protect your lower back against further injury.

How much force do you use when hitting a golf ball?

When you hit the ball, hit it with about 50 to 75% of the force you would normally use. Wear a back brace for support. It will serve as a constant reminder that you have a back problem. It will also keep your lower back warm, which helps keep the muscles and soft tissues loose.

Can golf cause back pain?

The answer for many is yes, but there are a number of considerations to keep in mind. Golfing is great fun, but it can cause or exacerbate back pain. See Golf and Back Pain. First, recognize that golfing is not really the best thing for your low back. The golf swing imparts a tremendous amount of stress to your lumbar spine.

Can you play golf with spinal stenosis?

Tips for Golfing with Spinal Stenosis. If you have lumbar spinal stenosis, you may be wondering if playing golf is a good idea. If you've had a spinal stenosis surgery, you may even wonder if golf is possible. The answer for many is yes, but there are a number of considerations to keep in mind. Golfing is great fun, but it can cause ...

Can you return to golf after stenosis surgery?

Your overall health, your specific stenosis diagnosis — and, if you've had surgery, the type of stenosis surgery that was performed—will also dictate to some extent if and when you can return to golf. As always, it's important to discuss your individual situation with your doctor.

Do you need a prescription for low back braces?

You can find options for low back braces at most pharmacies, and you don't need a prescription.

What is James microdiscectomy?

James microdiscectomy low back surgery. Microdiscectomy is one of the most frequent surgeries performed by orthopaedic spine surgeons. Also known as microscopic decompression surgery, the objective is to alleviate the pain caused by the intervertebral disc impinging on the root of the spinal nerves.

How long does it take to recover from a microdiscectomy?

Patients often experience immediate pain relief after surgery and resume routine activities shortly thereafter. Full physical recovery can take up to six weeks post-surgery.

How long does chronic back pain last?

Chronic back pain is defined as pain that persists for 12 weeks or longer, even after an initial injury or underlying cause of acute low back pain has been treated. Chronic low back pain continues to be a major factor inhibiting the enjoyment of life for many Americans.