Both as a golfer, and a podiatric physician, immediately, I have had Tiger Woods on my mind these past several days. I started to think specifically as a podiatric physician who has been exploring the role of lower extremity biomechanics. Tiger’s injuries will, of course, impact his ability to play; but a golfer of his level may certainly return to his beloved sport with accommodations to his eventual residual injuries.
Foot deformities, arthritis and muscle or tendon conditions all play a role in one’s ability to maximize your golf game. However, the lower extremity biomechanics of both bone and soft tissue pathologies as well as foot type has lagged in research in the golf arena when compared to conditions of the upper extremities. Despite the recognition that the swing “starts from the foot” and continues upward, very few have studied the limitations and conditions of the feet on the swing.
As a fairly new golfer and podiatric physician, I have been lecturing across the county on considerations for both podiatrists and golf instructors. Foot deformities, tendon problems, previous surgery and joint limitations all have influence on the golf swing. I have been working with golf professionals to consider what types of accommodations may be helpful for golfers. A recent lecture.
Along with the rest of the world, I wish Tiger a speedy recovery and a return to the best possible outcome for his foot function in both walking and in golf. To quote Tiger himself, I hope he is able to “stay patient, stay in the moment, and keep grinding”. If anyone can overcome the severity of this injury, it is Tiger Woods.
