Regular physical activity is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. However, excessive exercise can increase the risk of injury, especially if you push your body too hard. If you sustain a sports injury or would like to know how to prevent it, it’s worth visiting a sports medicine doctor.
During your appointment, here are some questions you should ask.
What Are Your Credentials?
It’s vital to know the clinical background and experience of your healthcare provider. Doing quick online research, reviewing patient feedback, and asking your sports medicine doctor personally are the simplest ways to do this. You can also look at medical databases to check if they’re board-certified and fellowship-trained.
Experience and area of expertise are critical factors in determining whether a doctor is a good fit for you. You should ask your doctor where they received their training and how many years they have been treating sports injuries.
What Sports Injuries Do You Treat?
The sport you play will determine which injuries you are at risk of incurring. If you’re a track runner, you will be more likely to injure your leg, foot, or ankle. On the other hand, tennis players are more susceptible to wrist, elbow, or shoulder injuries. It’s essential to know what types of injuries your sports medicine doctor treats to learn if they can give you the proper care and treatment. Ask your doctor what sports injuries they usually treat and their success rates.
What Treatment Options Do You Offer?
Your sports medicine doctor should discuss the treatment options their clinic offers related to your sports injury. Make sure to ask if they offer non-surgical orthopedic treatments for mild to moderate cases. You can also ask if they can perform minimally invasive surgery.
Be sure to communicate your fears and concerns, so your doctor can explain the treatments and procedures in-depth. Knowing what to expect and having a clear picture of what will happen can ease your worries and doubts.
How Much Does The Treatment Cost?
The cost of treatment is another factor to consider. Before choosing a sports medicine doctor, inquire about the overall cost of treatment and if they accept your insurance plan.
What Should I Expect During Recovery?
If you’re recovering from an injury, you should ask your sports medicine doctor about the signs you should watch out for that could indicate if you’re getting better or worse. Take note of the specific activities or movements you should avoid and how long you will need to limit your physical activities.
It’s also helpful to ask your doctor to draw up a timeline for your recovery. Ask them how long it will take to recover, what you should prepare for during recovery, how soon you can expect results, and when you can safely return to sports. Depending on the severity of your injury, the timespan of your recovery will vary.
How Do I Prevent Injuries?
Knowing how to prevent injuries is always helpful. Whether or not you’re injured, this is a crucial question to ask your sports medicine doctor. Injuries not only hamper your performance but also put you at risk for recurrences. A sports medicine doctor can educate you on good form and techniques that help prevent injuries and ensure optimal athletic performance.
Is It Safe For Me To Be Doing Physical Activities?
Some people may need to take extra precautions before starting an exercise routine. People with the following medical conditions should consult with a doctor before engaging in physical activities:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- High blood pressure
You should also consult with your doctor if physical activities elicit the following symptoms that may be related to heart or lung disease:
- Chest pain
- Lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
Your sports medicine doctor can evaluate your health, determine your risk factors, and suggest a safe exercise program.
Sports Medicine Doctor in Austin, TX
Whether you’re an elite athlete or a weekend warrior, your physical health should be a top priority. With proper guidance and expert advice from a sports doctor, you can reach peak performance, avoid injury, and lead a more productive and active life.
If you’re looking for a sports medicine doctor in Austin, TX, look no further than All-Star Orthopedics of Austin. Dr. Carolyn Hyde is a board-certified and fellowship-trained sports medicine doctor. She can help you recover from a sports injury and continue playing the sport you love.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hyde, call (512) 346-4933 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you.
