Athletes who train and play sports are prone to various musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. The intensive physical strain put on their bodies repeatedly often result in musculoskeletal issues. These injuries and conditions are treated by sports medicine physicians.
What Is Sports Medicine?
Sports medicine deals with injuries and conditions sustained from physical activities such as playing sports or exercising. Providers in this field are called sports medicine physicians, and they are specifically trained in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of physical injuries and conditions sustained through exercise and sports play. Not only do sports medicine physicians work on healing patients, they also work to reduce the risk of future injuries.
You don’t have to be an athlete to consult with a sports medicine physician. This branch of medicine also deals with people who incur illnesses or injuries from physically demanding jobs, like construction work. Sports medicine physicians often treat pediatric patients, as well. Aside from treatment, a sports medicine physician may also address nutrition and provide patients with guidance on how to maximize athletic performance.
Common Injuries Treated in Sports Medicine
Sports medicine often deals with injuries and conditions in the soft tissues of the body. These injuries involve tendons, muscles, and ligaments. Sports medicine also deals with injuries to bones. Common injuries and conditions treated by sports medicine physicians include:
- Rotator cuff tear
- Tennis elbow
- Anterior cruciate ligament tear
- Posterior cruciate ligament tear
- Meniscus tear
- Ankle sprain and instability
- Shoulder instability
- Laberal tear of the shoulder
- Fractures
- Concussions
Through sports medicine, damaged ligaments, tissues, tendons, bones, and muscles can be treated and brought back to their best condition. Some sports medicine physicians also specialize in orthopedic surgery. This means, the same physician can treat you using nonsurgical and surgical treatments, depending on what is best for you.
When to Visit a Sports Medicine Physician
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, and numbness in a specific part of the body, consult with a sports medicine physician – especially if you’re struggling to perform daily tasks. These signs may indicate a fracture, sprain, or other injury. If you are physically active, exercise regularly, play sports, or have a physically demanding job, it’s critical that you visit a sports medicine physician if in pain.
You should also visit a sports medicine physician if you injured yourself while playing a sport, exercising, or on the job. Immediate medical attention can often lessen your recovery time and bring you relief. If you sustain an injury, don’t wait for it to heal itself. Many times, people incur injuries that need medical treatment and are not even aware of it. To be on the safe side, always see a sports medicine physician if you get injured.
Sports Medicine Doctor in Austin
Located in Austin, Texas, All-Star Orthopedics welcomes patients of all ages and walks of life. With our skillful medical staff, we specialize in arthritis care, sports medicine, general orthopedic care, orthopedic surgery, and physical therapy. Under the guidance of Dr. Carolyn M. Hyde, our professional team is ready to care for any orthopedic injury or condition you may have.
To make an appointment, please call (512) 346-4933. You may also request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you heal!
