NCT05675618 · Hospital for Special Surgery, New York
Return to Golf After Orthopaedic Surgery
What this study is about
The GOLF study is a conducted at multiple hospitals, forward-looking study with the goal to investigate golfers' return to the sport following hip, knee or shoulder arthroplasty. The prevalence of return to golf, by level of returning to golf will be assessed at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively.
View original scientific description
The GOLF study is a multicenter, prospective study with the goal to investigate golfers' return to the sport following hip, knee or shoulder arthroplasty. The prevalence of return to golf, by level of returning to golf will be assessed at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. Patients who are active golfers undergoing joint replacement will be identified from outpatient clinics and pre-assessment clinics and given information about the study at least two weeks prior to surgery. Participants in this study must have a desire to return to golf after surgery. Previous studies have only been able to report the return to golf after arthroplasty retrospectively; the prospective nature of this study will allow for a greater understanding of this process.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 18+ years
- A self-reported golfer
- Able to consent to treatment
- Indicated for one of the following surgical procedures: total hip arthroplasty, hip resurfacing, revision hip arthroplasty, total knee arthroplasty, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, revision knee arthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty, reverse shoulder arthroplasty, shoulder resurfacing arthroplasty, revision shoulder arthroplasty
Exclusion criteria
- Inability to complete follow-up questionnaires
- Declining operative management
- No desire to return to golf postoperatively
- Medical problem that affects the patient's ability to play golf (e.g., angina, shortness of breath, etc.)
Where
- New York, New York
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations