“Is scoliosis and golf a good idea?”This seems to be an enduring question in my practice. It is important to first think about it before I answer. “what is scoliosis?”
Scoliosis refers to a spine curve that isn’t supposed to exist. If you examine someone’s spine, it should appear straight and without curves or shifts. Scoliosis is characterized by a “rotated” spine that follows the curve.
It appears that genetic predisposition is a major factor in who develops severe scoliosis. We would be foolish to ignore the impact of environmental factors on the severity and nature of scoliosis. We will now discuss the relationship between scoliosis and golf, which is an environmental factor.
The spine is subject to a lot rotational forces from golf and scoliosis. Because a “rotated” spine is the precondition for developing a curve or scoliosis (curve), golf and scoliosis might not make a good combination. Golfing can cause your spine to rotate more, which could encourage scoliosis.
You may be at risk if scoliosis is a family trait or you are prone to it.
Golf enthusiasts also like to know what their worst-case scenario is so I ask them. “What about golf after scoliosis surgery…is that mission impossible?”Answer: This depends on the number fused vertebrae in your spine.
Golf may be challenging after scoliosis, depending on how many of your vertebrae are fused to your spine.
Spinal fusion is a procedure that involves the fusement of approximately 70% of patients with scoliosis. Due to the limited motion and rotation of one’s spine after surgery for scoliosis, it would make golf impossible.
Stacey Lewis of the LPGA Tour was able to overcome this problem. Stacey Lewis was diagnosed at 11 with scoliosis and had to have surgery. She failed to get any relief from her 7-long years of wearing a brace. Her curve was worsening and she had to have surgery. She needed a rod, 5 titanium screws, as well as a rod. Stacey Lewis had a good luck story. Only a few of her bones were fused by her scoliosis treatment. Her case isn’t typical. Most people who elect for surgery will have many bones fused to their spines, significantly decreasing any rotation.
Everybody considering surgery today should consult me. There are safer and more effective alternatives to surgery. At best, surgery outcomes can be unpredictable. Given the recent advancements in scoliosis treatment and outcomes of scoliosis surgeries, it is not a feasible option. There are many options. There are GOOD choices. Discover the best and most safest options for scoliosis treatment today.