Participating in sports is a great way to keep healthy and active, but it can also be hard on the body. Sports medicine physicians have specialized training in the treatment and prevention sports-related injuries and conditions. These specialists can provide care for everyone from the dedicated athlete to the weekend warrior.
Common examples of musculoskeletal concerns treated by sports medicine specialists include:
Acute injuries (like ankle sprains, muscle strains, knee and shoulder injuries or fractures)
Overuse injuries (like rotator cuff and other forms of tendonitis, stress fractures)
Non-musculoskeletal concerns that can be addressed by sports medicine specialists include:
Injury prevention
Concussion (mild traumatic brain injury) and other head injuries
Athletes with chronic or acute illness (including asthma and diabetes)
Exercise prescription for patients who want to increase their fitness levels
“Return to play” decisions for the sick or injured athlete
Recommendations on safe strength-training and conditioning exercises
Sports Medicine providers specialize in non-surgical treatment of sports-related injuries and conditions. When surgery is the appropriate treatment, the sports medicine specialist can guide referrals orthopedic surgeons and physical and occupational therapies.
