I get athletes from time to time with all sorts of limiting injuries. Arthritis, knee replacements, hip replacements, fused wrists, neck limitations, and even auto-immune disorders! I approach these athletes like this.
1. As much as possible I try to connect with the doctor, physical therapist, or their trainer. I do not want to be doing anything that will injure the athletes.
2. I work to develop a plan of attack. Sometimes this means altering stroke mechanics, footwork, and conditioning plans.
3. I am constantly asking for feedback. How does that feel? Does this work for you? etc.
4. Above all, the plan has to fit the athlete, not the athlete has to fit the plan!
In the opening paragraph, all who have come to me with such ailments have prevailed and been able to return to action.
Let me share a personal story on this. When I had arthritis so bad I needed a hip replacement I played my last tournament in the states. I beat the state champ 11-10 tiebreaker in the semis. I could not move. But I could serve! Serving aces kept me in the game and allowed me to pull some upsets. Developing a strategy to combat an opponent is part of it as well.
So all of you out there with your ailments and issues-suck it up and get after it! Develop a plan and go get’em!!