Bryson DeChambeau has always pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in golf.
With his unique swing mechanics and dedication to physical transformation, he’s redefined the game.
But with great innovation comes great risk, and Bryson’s journey has been marred by a significant hip injury that has tested his limits both physically and mentally.
It's an in jury that we see regularly at Swing Lab, with many of our clients requiring our specialist expertise to help treat and manage the pain they are experiencing from it.
The labral tear: What’s really going on?
At the core of Bryson’s struggle is a labral tear in his hip. This condition affects the labrum, the cartilage that lines the hip socket. Think of the labrum as the seal on a jar — it keeps everything in place.
When it’s torn, the stability and function of the hip joint are compromised. This leads to pain, clicking sensations, and a decreased range of motion — none of which are conducive to a powerful and precise golf swing.

Bryson’s intense training routines, which include heavy weightlifting and rigorous practice schedules, may have contributed to the wear and tear on his hip.
The constant pressure and demand on his body to maintain peak performance has undoubtedly played a role in his injury.
So how does this affect the golf swing?
With the hip being a main center of rotation in the golf swing, a labral tear means it increases the friction between the surfaces every time one has to rotate and load the hip during the swing.
Being in his right hip as a right handed golfer, the loading of the backswing will increase the stress on the labrum and can cause significant tightness & discomfort in the hip overtime with the repetitions.
The path to recovery: On & off the courseÂ
Bryson DeChambeau isn’t one to back down from a challenge. His approach to recovery has been as methodical and scientific as his approach to the game itself.
Working closely with physical therapists, he has focused on strengthening the muscles around his hip to provide better support and alleviate pain. Techniques such as cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, and specific strengthening exercises have been integral to his rehabilitation process.Â

A proper rehabilitation plan is important to continue playing with a labral tear in the hip to avoid any more excessive load onto the joint during his training. This is so that he can continue to train & play and maintain the longevity of his career.Â
Despite the rigorous treatment, the road to recovery is never straightforward. Bryson has had to balance his desire to compete with the necessity of rest and healing. This balancing act was put to the test during the 2024 US Open.
The 2024 US Open: A test of endurance
The US Open is one of golf’s most gruelling tests, and for Bryson, the 2024 edition was especially significant. Leading up to the event, there was considerable speculation about whether his hip would hold up under the intense physical demands of the tournament.
Bryson’s preparation involved a meticulous blend of physical therapy and strategic practice sessions. He focused on maintaining his power while ensuring he didn’t exacerbate his injury.
As the tournament unfolded, his performance was closely scrutinized. His drives remained powerful, and his precision was on display, but there were moments where the strain on his hip was evident, particularly on the more challenging holes.
The road to The Open Championship: Another challenge ahead
As Bryson looks ahead to the The Open Championship at Royal Troon next week, the question remains: Can he continue to manage his hip injury while competing at the highest level?

The Open — with its unique challenges and course conditions — presents another significant test for Bryson.
Preparation for it will likely involve a similar approach to that of the US Open.
Bryson and his team will need to continue focusing on his hip's stability and strength, ensuring he can withstand the demands of the tournament.
The unpredictable weather and course conditions in Scotland will add another layer of complexity to his preparation and performance.
Managing a labral tear is an ongoing process that requires continuous attention and adjustment.
For Bryson and other athletes dealing with similar injuries, the long-term impact on their careers is a significant concern.
Labral tears can be managed, but they often require ongoing treatment and careful planning to prevent further damage.
If you are experiencing pain in your hip or anywhere else in your body, then please feel free to drop the Swing lab team a line and book an initial consultation with one of our experts.
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