While sports medicine doctors have to undertake years of education in order to become medical doctors, they specialize in a type of medicine that isn't practiced by all doctors. So, whether you or someone you love is due to be treated by a doctor that specializes in sports medicine, you may wonder exactly what they're able to do in that capacity. You may wonder if you still need to see a primary care physician while seeing a sports medicine doctor? Lots of people, including children, see sports medicine doctors. According to Cary Orthopaedics, the CDC reports that some 30 million children and adolescents participate in youth sports of some kind within the United States. Additionally, 19.5% of Americans over 15 participate in some form of exercise, up from 15.9% as of 2003. So, what will they experience with a sports medicine doctor?
1. Achilles Tendon Rupture
Lots of athletes are terrified of this injury, as it's surprisingly common. This usually is precipitated by a sudden pain in the heel, as well as a loud popping sound. It can make it difficult for a person to walk, let alone engage in sports. Sports medicine doctors can help treat these injuries.
2. Sprains
Sprains are remarkably common amongst athletes. Ankle sprains are particularly common, though wrist sprains and other sprains are not unheard of. An improperly treated sprain can cause weakness in the joint, and athletes in particular can't be overly cautious. These injuries should be treated professionally.
3. Rotator Cuff Tears
This type of injury is seen especially often among baseball pitchers and tennis players. Any sport that requires motions that pull on their shoulders. At times, these injuries require surgeries. Usually, the onset is slow, but eventually, the injury can be crippling.
4. Fractures
While fractures need to be treated by multiple doctors in many cases, including an orthopedic specialist, your recovery period can be overseen by a sports medicine doctor. A sports medicine doctor can help you determine how to get back on the field or in the court following your treatment for a sports-related fracture.
There are a lot of different injuries that can be incurred while you're engaging in sports. While not all of them can be treated by a sports medicine doctor, having a sports medicine doctor on your team can help you treat injuries more effectively.
