Sports Medicine Specialist

Who needs sports medicine?

Sports medicine is a branch of medicine dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating sports-related conditions. 

Sports medicine isn’t just for student and professional athletes; it’s also appropriate for active adults who engage in everyday activities like running, swimming, tennis, and golf. 

Although physical activity is essential to maintaining good health, it can put you at potential risk for certain injuries. The goal of sports medicine is to lower those risks and ensure you can safely engage in the activities you enjoy. 

What are the benefits of sports medicine?

One of the main pillars of sports medicine is prevention. Sports injuries can have a significant impact not only on your physical performance but your overall health. Sports medicine can provide you with actionable ways you can maintain your health and prevent painful sports injuries. 

Sports medicine can help you avoid conditions like:

• Ankle sprains
• Achilles tendon injuries
• Fractures
• Tendinitis
• Knee injuries
• Swollen muscles
• Muscle strains
• Shin splints
• Dislocations
• Rotator cuff injuries

Sports medicine can also provide you with ways you can improve your physical performance. Certain issues like poor nutrition, improper training, and wearing the wrong gear can inhibit your performance on the field. 

Treatment is another essential aspect of sports medicine. Although prevention is the ultimate goal, some injuries are unavoidable. 

When you do experience a sports injury, your sports medicine specialist can provide you with the most effective treatment to relieve your symptoms and restore your physical performance.

What happens during my sports medicine appointment?

During your appointment, you and your doctor discuss your activities, past injuries, and overall health. 

Your doctor also performs a physical exam and, in some cases, imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI. Your doctor uses this information to get a good idea of your health status and your potential health risks. 

After your evaluation, you and your doctor discuss ways to effectively prevent sports injuries and improve your physical performance.

What treatments are available for sports injuries?

If you experience a sports injury, receiving the right treatment is essential to a quick and successful recovery. Valdosta Orthopedic Associates offers several treatments for sports injuries, including:

• Braces, splints, or casts
• Steroid injections
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medication

The practice also offers surgical treatment at their on-site surgical center. 

Sports medicine provides you with the tools you need to manage and maintain your health. To speak with a doctor about sports medicine, schedule your appointment by phone or online today.