How to Recover From a Knee Injury
By Chad Buleen
A knee injury can keep you off the golf course for what may seem like an eternity. However frustrating this can be, it is important that you explicitly follow your doctor's instructions to avoid prolonging the recovery process. The better you hew to your recovery plan, the more quickly you will be able to get back on the links. Regardless of whether your injury required surgery or not, there are some basic rules that will speed the recovery process.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Reduce swelling by keeping your leg elevated. If you had surgery, the leg should be elevated for a few days following the operation. You should also apply ice to the knee for the first few days after the injury or surgery to reduce pain and inflammation.
Use the walking devices the doctor has recommended or prescribed. In some cases, he will recommend that you use a cane, a walker or crutches after the injury or surgery. Even if the pain seems to lessen and you feel that if you can walk on your own, do not ditch the walking aid until your doctor or physical therapist says you can safely do so.
Exercise your knee as it becomes strong enough for renewed physical activity. In some cases, the doctor will recommend seeing a physical therapist to determine the types of exercises to be done and the intensity at which they can be performed. Simple squats and exercises that stretch the quadriceps are usually good ways to start. Your knee must regain its strength before it can be tested on the golf course.
Take any medications that your doctor or surgeon prescribes. In addition to pain pills, if you had an operation, she may prescribe antibiotics to stave off possible infection.
Pay attention to the way your knee looks and feels. Contact your doctor if there is persistent redness, intensified pain, considerable swelling or pain in your calf muscle.
Take it easy on the golf course. When you have finally reached the point that you are able to golf again, start off by simply hitting a few balls on the driving range or putting on the practice green. Gradually move up to a nine-hole round and progress until you feel comfortable playing a full 18 holes.
About The Author
Chad Buleen is a Society of Professional Journalists-award winning newspaper and magazine writer and editor with more than 10 years' experience. He has been published in "Utah Spirit," "Charleston Gazette," "Idaho Falls Post Register" and numerous other publications. Buleen holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications with an emphasis in print journalism from Brigham Young University-Idaho.
