 Woosnam has struggled with a long-term back injury |
Ian Woosnam's worries that his back complaint was about to end his playing career have been allayed. The Welshman, 49, pulled out of the Madrid and Italian Opens with a leg problem and withdrew before the Masters started with related back trouble.
But he has been told that the problem is a virus, not the rheumatic disease he has battled with for 20 years.
"I hope to return for the Irish Open next week, but will walk a few courses first," said Woosnam.
 | At least I know I'll be playing golf again |
"I first suffered from the virus in March when I was playing in the Johnnie Walker Classic in Thailand.
"It started in my head and worked its way down my body, and the specialist said that my problem is the back end of that virus.
"He has given me an injection to clean me out and it seems to be working. At least I know I'll be playing golf again."
Last year's winning Ryder Cup captain, who guided Europe to a record-equalling win over the USA in Ireland last September, has yet to earn a penny this year after missing the halfway cut in Thailand, Singapore and China.
| I'm looking forward to the senior tour because I could start being competitive again |
Woosnam was diagnosed in 1987 with ankylosing spondylitis, a rheumatic disease of the spine that can also affect joints, tendons and ligaments and other areas such as the eyes and heart.
He has taken anti-inflammatories ever since, but last year started a new treatment of weekly injections each costing �200.
The 1991 Masters champion becomes eligible for the senior tour on his 50th birthday next March.
"I'm looking forward to that because I could start being competitive again," said Woosnam.
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