Sports Medicine Specialist

What is sports medicine?

Sports medicine is an orthopedic specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of activity-related injuries. Sports medicine specialists provide education on sports injury prevention, proper posture, and the use of protective equipment. 

Sports medicine is particularly beneficial for children and teenagers. That’s because their bodies are still growing, making them more susceptible to accidents and injuries.

What issues does sports medicine treat?

At Bluewater Orthopedics, the team uses sports medicine to treat a variety of common issues, including:

• Sprains
• Strains
• Knee injuries
• Swollen muscles
• Dislocations
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Wrist pain
• ACL tears
• Shoulder pain
• Hip pain
• Hand pain
• Elbow pain

You might also benefit from sports medicine if you experience a fracture while playing contact sports, like football, ice hockey, or rugby.

What does sports medicine involve?

At Bluewater Orthopedics, a sports medicine consultation begins with a comprehensive orthopedic exam and a discussion of your symptoms, including their severity, when they first started, and if any particular movements or activities make them worse. Next, your provider orders X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to assess the health of your hard and soft tissues.

Usually, these measures are enough to determine the source of your discomfort. Your provider uses the information gathered during your exam to design a custom treatment plan that minimizes your pain and speeds up your body’s natural healing process, allowing you to return to your favorite activities.

Does sports medicine involve injury prevention?

Yes. The team at Bluewater Orthopedics strongly believes in taking preventive steps to avoid sports injuries. Depending on your age, level of activity, and needs, they might recommend:

Using the proper technique

Different sports and physical activities require various stances and postures. By adhering to the proper technique, you can significantly reduce the risk of an overuse injury. 

Investing in safety equipment

When playing sports or working out, it’s important to wear comfortable, supportive shoes and the necessary safety equipment. For example, if you play a contact sport like football, always wear a mouthguard and helmet.

Listening to your body

Often, it’s possible to detect sports injuries before they occur. If you experience pain, swelling, or limited mobility, don’t push through it. Instead, listen to your body and take a break. 

If you’re a physically active individual, make a sports medicine appointment at Bluewater Orthopedics by calling the nearest office or by clicking the online booking tool today.