Getting back to
what you love.

My patients helped shape the question.

Many of my patients are active people. They want to play golf or tennis, walk comfortably, and enjoy their usual lives. In our conversations, the question often comes back to what it will take to do those things again.

That helped shape my interest in endoscopic spine surgery and in rehabilitation. I wanted the treatment plan to connect with the activity the person hoped to return to.

Understanding the golfer as well as the spine.

I pursued certification through the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) to better understand the relationship between the body and the golf swing.

A swing brings together movement through the legs, hips and trunk. Strength, balance and coordination all matter. That makes the way a person moves an important part of the recovery conversation.

The work continues through rehabilitation.

When surgery is appropriate, treating the source of symptoms is one part of the plan. Rehabilitation helps build the movement and confidence needed for the activity ahead.

In my published TPI article, I described a phased return-to-golf approach developed by physical therapist Catherine Hoell. It connects healing with the demands of a golf swing.

1. Allow healing.

   Begin with protection, comfortable movement and basic control.

2. Rebuild strength.

   Work on strength, endurance and flexibility as recovery allows.

3. Work toward the swing.

   Progress to golf-specific movement, balance and coordination.

These are broad principles from the published article. Your surgeon and physical therapist guide the timing and progression for your operation and recovery.

Your activity belongs in the conversation.

Tell me what you have had to give up, what you miss, and what you hope to return to. Golf may be our starting point, but the purpose is a treatment discussion grounded in the life you want to lead.