Anyone playing golf after wrist fusion surgery?

Question

I am considering surgery to improve pain problems with arthritic right wrist.

The surgery is called fusion; wrist bones fused into one. Wrist does not bend afterwards. Hand/finger strength improves and pain is much reduced (according to the medical people)

Golf possible, or not?

I tried hitting some balls with a tight wrist brace to simulate the difference. Seems like it should be possible to adjust the swing with some practice. Comments?

Answer 1

Certainly you can! There is a player on the Nationwide tour that swings backwards with his hands reversed. I have a fused carpal in my left hand and I am a single digit handicapper. It's all about the turn, not the wrist c**k so you shouldn't even lose distance really. But there will be adjustment as you probably know but I don't think that after you adjust you should have any problems. For me, golf is a game of eternal optimism. Think about it this way: You can never bend your wrist the wrong way after the surgery so it's one less thing to do wrong or as I like to think, one more thing that is always consistent.

Answer 2

Calvin Peete was a big time professional golfer who had his wrist fused.

Answer 3

I have carpel tunnel and I can't wait to get it fixed.  I am in therapy now to try to avoid the surgery, but either way I will feel better afterwords.  I say get the surgery.  Your day to day life and golf game will improve!

Answer 4

i personnaly do not know but i will give you advice talk to your chiropractor they would tell you what is best

Answer 5

First, I applaud your way of thinking about your situation. You seam positive in that you are already thinking about how you will still be able to play golf after wrist fusion surgery.

I have had major lower back surgery in which 40% of 3 discs were cut-away and I am still prone to herniated discs. You will adapt; I had to learn to swing a lot more freely and with less rotation and club head speed resulting in less distance but my accuracy improved.

Lee Trevino was struck by lightning, I think 3 times, and had a weird looking swing, but it worked for him. I believe you will adapt a swing to suit your physical abilities after the surgery - so go for it.

Best of luck and good wishes.