Whether you’re a professional athlete, weekend warrior, or even a casual walker, the potential for physical injury is ever-present when it comes to exercise.
Physicians specializing in sports medicine recognize, manage and treat injuries related to physical activities. Athletes, senior citizens and even people with work-related injuries can benefit from sports medicine consultations and therapies.
How Sports Medicine Can Help
Sports medicine physicians specialize in treating patients with injuries caused by sports and recreational activity. These doctors are trained in many different areas of medicine—including cardiology, orthopedics, exercise, emergency care, nutrition, and psychology. This means patients receive many benefits beyond injury prevention and rehabilitation. These physicians will also determine whether an injury can benefit from specific therapies or surgery followed by therapy.
When Surgery May Be Needed
Surgery is often the last resort for sports-related injuries. Physicians will recommend a surgical procedure only after less invasive measures do not provide a full recovery. Patients with injuries may undergo weeks or months of physical therapy before surgery is discussed, since the ultimate goal is to avoid surgery when possible.
Depending on the severity of your injury, initial treatments might include strength and range of motion training, physical therapy, rehabilitation and R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation).
Injuries that typically require surgery for a full recovery include ACL reconstruction, shoulder labral tears and meniscus tears. ACL tears are exclusively treated with surgery.
Athletes at all experience levels require preventative care to protect their safety and overall health and well-being. In the event of an injury, prompt care is very important, and helps avoid reoccurring or future injuries.
Are you ready to discuss treatment options for your injury? To learn about the services available at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center, please visit our website or call our free Consult-A-Nurse® Healthcare Referral service at 1-800-446-6956.
Sources:
American Medical Society for Sports Medicine
Sports Injury Info
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