How to Work With a Sports Medicine Physician
Sports refer to a wide variety of physical activities undertaken for recreation, competition or exercise. Sports are generally governed by unwritten rules to make sure fair competition and consistent adjudication of a winner. There are many different types of sports and recreational activities such as American football, rugby, lacrosse, ice hockey, motor racing, baseball, softball, Australian rules soccer and even American football where players wear helmets and pads.
A good example of a sport that involves contact is American football, which is a contact sport that is played between two teams each comprised of 12 people. Another example is lacrosse which is played between teams on an oval field. Lacrosse players wear special protective gear designed to protect them from injury and to prevent them from being struck by other lacrosse players. Ice hockey has its own type of sports medicine healthcare provider who is a physician specializing in this particular sport.
A major injury is not the only reason to consider seeing a sports medicine healthcare provider. Participation in any sport can result in sprains, bruises, strains and other injuries. These types of injuries can occur during normal activities such as running or exercising but sometimes, they can occur unexpectedly and result in injury. Examples of these types of sports injuries are tennis elbow, which is a debilitating injury resulting from overuse or injury to the tendons on the elbow. Bowling is another sport that requires specialized treatment for those that participate in this sport.
The most common sports medicine healthcare provider for a sports-related injury is a physician who specializes in orthopedics. An orthopedist deals with treating sports related injuries and their causes. They look at the injury to determine the severity, location, nature and the risk for developing additional health problems. Other factors that may be taken into consideration are the patient’s history of prior injuries, any other medical conditions, lifestyle factors, medications and medical treatment.
Many patients choose to work closely with a sports medicine physician. This is because family medicine has its limitations as well as limitations to what it can do to help a patient. Often, family medicine and sports medicine are used together because the techniques used are similar and the recovery times are the same. Physicians also share some of the same philosophies in terms of how to best treat patients, especially in emergency situations.
Many physicians participate in continuing education courses that allow them to keep up with current standards in sports medicine. These additional training courses generally allow for more specialized treatment options. It is important for athletes to consult with their family medicine provider and seek out sports medicine healthcare providers that are trained in their specific field. This can help to ensure optimal treatment and recovery for a patient.