If you have a sports-related or musculoskeletal injury, or if you want to improve your overall fitness level safely and effectively, then the ideal type of specialist to see is a sports medicine physician.
Sports medicine is a specialty within the field of orthopedic medicine that was originally developed to provide high-quality medical care for professional and collegiate athletes, but it now goes far beyond that. Sports doctors work with a person who:
- Has an orthopedic (musculoskeletal) injury or condition
- Is looking to improve overall fitness, strength, and flexibility
- Wants to enhance their athletic performance
- Wants to learn how to prevent future injury
- Is looking to maintain a healthy, fit lifestyle
How Is Sports Medicine Different from Orthopedics?
Sports medicine physicians specialize in the quick diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, especially injuries – including wear-and-tear injury such as arthritis. Their expertise often lies in nonsurgical treatment methods and preventive care.
The goal of these doctors is to help you return to health and to restore your body to your prior fitness level, so you can continue your active lifestyle. Sports medicine also focuses on helping individuals reach their maximum physical potential so they can perform at their best and in the safest way possible, regardless of their age or ability.
What Are Sports-Related Injuries?
Regardless of your athletic ability, musculoskeletal injuries are commonplace. Sports medicine physicians treat a full spectrum of these orthopedic injuries, including:
- Sprains
- Strains
- Concussions
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Tendonitis (tendon inflammation)
- Torn ligaments (e.g., ACL, MCL, LCL, and PCL tears)
- Elbow conditions (golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow)
- Knee injuries (meniscus tears, patella tendonitis, iliotibial band syndrome)
- Shoulder instability
- Shoulder injuries (rotator cuff tear, shoulder impingement)
- Shin splints
- Hip conditions (femoroacetabular impingement)
Why Should I See a Sports Doctor?
If you have been injured, a sports medicine physician will perform a physical exam and may order diagnostic testing to accurately assess the extent of your injury. They will endeavor to use the least-invasive techniques, including physical therapy whenever possible, to treat the injury. Sometimes surgery may be necessary, but this is only recommended after nonsurgical treatments have been fully explored.
Most sports injuries can be treated effectively, and most patients return quickly to their desired level of physical activity once their injury has healed. Many sports injuries can be prevented if proper precautions are taken, and your sports physician can explain how to prevent future injuries.
Sports Medicine Physician in Boynton Beach, FL
Sports medicine physicians have in-depth understanding of the impacts of each sport on the human body and how the various types of exercise can affect you. Their knowledge of how the body moves and works during particular sports means they can provide appropriate advice and instruction to prevent injury and reduce further damage.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of sports medicine and how our specialists can help you, call our team at Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches today at (561) 733-5888 or use our convenient online appointment request form. We look forward to helping you get back on track!
