Sports Medicine treatment and injury prevention
If you have an injury while playing sports, exercising, or doing any physical activity, a primary care sports medicine specialist can diagnose and develop a treatment plan for your recovery. Your visit may include x-rays or a referral for advanced imaging (MRI, CT, etc.), depending on the severity of the injury.
A sports medicine specialist is highly trained in the non-operative treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. Most sports injuries don’t require surgery, but if a surgery evaluation is needed, your doctor will coordinate your care with an orthopedic surgeon.
Non-surgical treatment for sports-related injuries
Ninety percent of sports injuries do not need surgery and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, ice to reduce swelling, and a cast or sling to immobilize the joint. Most patients will see a sports medicine doctor for acute and overuse injuries or injection therapies. Common issues include knee, shoulder, leg, or hip injuries, pulled or sprained muscles, joint pain, or pain from osteoarthritis. If additional care is needed, you will be referred to physical and occupational therapies or an orthopedic sports medicine surgeon if surgery is a better treatment option.