Sports medicine specialists do much more than repair ankle fractures and stabilize dislocated shoulders. In fact, these highly trained physicians take care of athletes’ overall health and performance, helping them prevent injuries and enhance their physical abilities. In this blog, you will learn just what sports medicine doctors do to promote health and to train and protect their valuable patients.
A Sports Medicine Doctor Treats Athletic Injuries and Manages Musculoskeletal Conditions
When an athlete – pro or amateur – has an immediate health need or chronic musculoskeletal condition, the sports medicine doctor should be the first line of defense. Sports medicine doctors evaluate and diagnose bone, joint and muscular injuries, such as sprains, strains, and fractures. A sports doctor also develops detailed treatment plans to help the athlete recover safely, effectively and as quickly as possible.
An individual athlete’s care plan may include prescribing pain-relieving medications or muscle relaxants, recommending physical therapy or many other kinds of rehabilitation. When orthopedic surgery is required, the sports medicine doctor may perform that as well, using the latest techniques to preserve and repair structure and function.
Some examples of sports medicine surgeries include ACL reconstruction in the knee, rotator cuff, and tendon repairs, as well as fracture reductions in the upper and lower extremities. Sports medicine doctors also diagnose and treat concussions and their many complications.
A Sports Medicine Doctor Develops Accurate Recovery Schedules
A sports medicine doctor helps the sidelined athlete return to play safely after a serious injury. The physician works closely with the patient’s coaches, trainers and physical therapists to create a plan for gradual re-integration into the sport.
The return-to-play, or RTP, plan can include exercises, stretches, bracing and more. These interventions increase cardiovascular and muscular endurance, target techniques specific to the particular activity, improve overall strength and more.
The sports medicine doctor considers a number of factors when developing an RTP plan, including:
- Symptoms of the musculoskeletal injury or condition
- Medical test results, including imaging, blood work and more
- The actual physical demands of the sport or activity, including position, contact and more
- Evaluating an acceptable risk level
- The expectations and goals of the athlete, coach, family and others who may have a stake in the individual’s ability and desire to play effectively and safely
A Sports Medicine Doctor Helps Prevent Musculoskeletal and General Health Problems
Sports medicine doctors work hard to prevent athletic injuries before they happen. By assessing an athlete’s form, strength and overall physical condition, this highly trained healthcare provider can identify potential risk factors. The doctor then guides the individual through proper training techniques and equipment adjustments which mitigate or even eliminate those risks.
The doctor also may work with athletes to develop nutrition plans and provide guidance on supplements which can improve performance.
Sports medicine doctors often work closely with coaches and trainers to ensure that athletes follow their treatment plans, eat well, stay hydrated and follow sensible training regimens. Sports medicine doctors develop a deep understanding of the unique physical, mental and emotional challenges faced by athletes.
A Sports Medicine Doctor Manages Chronic Conditions
In addition to treating injuries, sports medicine doctors also manage chronic conditions which may affect an athlete’s performance and overall well-being. Examples of these conditions include asthma, diabetes and even the complexities of anxiety and eating disorders. By working closely with the athlete and the team of trainers and coaches, a sports medicine doctor ensures these conditions are properly managed without hindering the ability to train and play.
Your Sports Medicine Doctor in Walnut Creek, CA
Dr. Laura Timmerman is the orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist who has been supporting and treating athletes for more than 30 years. She is known for her accurate and compassionate care of active people of all ages. As one of her many satisfied patients, you will receive individualized attention which focuses on you as a person, not just on your symptoms.
To learn more about how having an experienced sports medicine physician on your team can help you perform well, call Dr. Laura Timmerman for an in-depth consultation. Reach us at (925) 952-4080, or request a visit by completing our patient form here.
Be your very best! Dr. Timmerman and her professional staff are here to help you achieve your goals.
