Golf has emerged as more than just a leisurely sport, as a recent cross-sectional survey published in the "Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport" led by the University of South Australia uncovers its potential to provide potential benefits for those battling osteoarthritis, a chronic degenerative disease. This study aimed to (i) assess psychological distress and general health among Australian golfers and compare it with a general population-based sample and (ii) investigate the association between playing golf, psychological distress, and general health in osteoarthritis-affected people.

The survey was conducted, collecting data from 459 Australian golfers, including their Kessler-10 Psychological Distress Scale, Short-Form 12 for health status, osteoarthritis status, and International Physical Activity Questionnaire. The outcomes were then compared to a general population-based sample from the Australian Health Survey, comprising 16,370 individuals. Modified Poisson regression was utilized to determine the link between playing golf and general health in all participants, and a subgroup with osteoarthritis was also analyzed (n = 128 golfers, n = 2216 general population).

The analyses were adjusted for education, age, smoking status, and gender. The study found that playing golf was linked with lower psychological distress (adjusted mean difference: -2.5, 95 % confidence interval: -4.1 to -0.9) and a higher likelihood of reporting good to excellent general health (adjusted relative risk: 1.09, 95 % confidence interval: 1.05 to 1.13) in comparison with the general population.

Moreover, among individuals with osteoarthritis, playing golf was linked to reduced psychological distress (adjusted mean difference: -4.0, 95 % confidence interval: -6.5 to -1.5) and an increased likelihood of reporting good to excellent general health (adjusted relative risk: 1.3, 95 % confidence interval: 1.2 to 1.4). Among golfers with OA, 91% rated their general health as good, very good, or excellent, while only 64% of the general population shared the same positive assessment.

Non-golfers with osteoarthritis experienced high to very high levels of psychological distress almost 3 times more frequently (22%) than golfers with osteoarthritis (8%). A positive correlation was discovered between engaging in golf and experiencing lower levels of psychological distress, along with improved health status. Golfers with osteoarthritis also reported decreased mental distress and improved overall health in comparison with the general population-based sample with osteoarthritis.

As golf emerges as a potential game-changer for mental health among older adults, the researchers emphasize the need for more comprehensive research on the topic, considering it is one of the most popular sporting activities for this demographic. This breakthrough research sheds light on the untapped potential of golf as a therapeutic and enjoyable activity for osteoarthritis patients, offering hope for improved quality of life and overall well-being.