Sports medicine deals with evaluating, diagnosing, treating, and even preventing injuries that occur as a result of physical activities. Sports doctors also focus on nutrition and performance optimization for anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle.
This medical specialization has become more established as the popularity of competitive sports has increased worldwide, and as people live longer and continue to pursue sports. For example, a sports medicine physician may treat golfers and tennis players who are in their teens or in their 90s!
For that reason, sports medicine is vital to the lives of athletes and physically active individuals. Let’s talk about what a sports doctor does for patients, and where you can go for an orthopedic evaluation and treatment that gets you back into the game.
What Is Involved in Sports Medicine?
Sports medicine doctors usually receive additional training in musculoskeletal (orthopedic) medicine after completing medical school. They are multidisciplinary in nature, and they know how to work with a medical team to help patients with their treatment. This team may include:
- Sports trainers to help get you strong and flexible
- Physical therapists to help with rehabilitation from injuries
- Surgeons to provide invasive intervention if necessary
- Nutritionists to provide dietary advice
What Are Common Injuries Treated in Sports Medicine?
Different sports and physical activities entail different types of movements, but they all involve the musculoskeletal system. Common sports injuries include:
- Sprains (stretched or torn ligaments)
- Strains (stretched or torn muscles or tendons)
- Rotator cuff tears (shoulder injury)
- ACL tears (knee injury)
- Tendonitis (inflammation of a tendon)
- Torn meniscus (cartilage injury in the knee)
- Fractures
- Dislocations
Is Sports Medicine Treatment Only for Athletes?
On the contrary, sports medicine professionals can provide expert care to anyone who leads an active lifestyle. They offer comprehensive treatment to weekend warriors, fitness enthusiasts, and backyard competitors alike.
These doctors specialize in the treatment and maintenance of the musculoskeletal system – the bones, muscles, joints, and all ancillary and supportive tissues and structures. Sports medicine physicians know how to efficiently get to the root of the pain or injury and how to treat it in such a way as to help it heal as quickly as possible.
When Should I Seek Sports Medicine Treatment?
Treatment from a sports medicine doctor is warranted if:
- You experience an injury or pain in a bone, muscle, or joint
- You want to proactively prevent injuries or reinjury
- You want to increase your fitness level and optimize your performance
- You are looking for professional medical advice about your nutritional requirements
Sports Medicine Treatment in Farmington Hills, MI
At Tri County Orthopedics, our sports medicine specialists are committed to providing you with high-quality, patient-centered orthopedic care right here in the Farmington Hills area. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (248) 474-5575 or by filling out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to serving you!
