In short,
- Sports medicine doctors treat a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, not just athletic injuries.
- They focus on prevention, diagnosis, and non-surgical treatments to help you recover and stay active.
- Consult a sports medicine doctor if you experience persistent pain or limited function, regardless of your activity level.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I need a sports medicine doctor near me?”, know that these specialists aren’t just for elite athletes. They address a broad range of musculoskeletal problems, no matter your activity level.
These doctors are experts in diagnosing and treating injuries related to physical activity and can help patients of all ages and abilities.
Understanding Sports Medicine
Sports medicine focuses on preventing, diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating injuries and conditions related to physical activity. This includes injuries to bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints. A sports medicine doctor often focuses on non-surgical treatments and rehabilitation to restore function and prevent future injuries.
The goal is to help people of all ages and abilities stay active and healthy by providing comprehensive care to improve performance and prevent injuries.
Who Benefits from Sports Medicine?
Many people who aren’t athletes can benefit from sports medicine. Anyone experiencing pain or limited function due to a musculoskeletal injury should consider seeing a sports medicine doctor. This can include overuse injuries, arthritis, and other conditions that affect movement and physical activity.
For example, someone with chronic knee pain from everyday activities could benefit as much as a marathon runner. Sports medicine doctors can help improve function and reduce pain for many different patients.
Common Conditions Treated
A sports medicine doctor may commonly treat a variety of conditions, including both acute injuries, like sprains and fractures, and chronic conditions, such as tendinitis and arthritis.
Because they’re trained in both prevention and treatment, seeing a sports medicine doctor can help you recover and potentially avoid future injuries.
Examples of Treatable Conditions
- Sprains and strains: Ankle sprains, hamstring strains, and wrist sprains are common.
- Fractures: Stress fractures, hairline fractures, and more severe breaks.
- Dislocations: Shoulder dislocations, hip dislocations, and finger dislocations.
- Tendinitis and bursitis: Tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and hip bursitis.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can be managed with sports medicine techniques.
- Overuse injuries: Shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Exploring Options for Knee Injury Treatment Near Me
Knee injuries are a common reason people seek help from a sports medicine doctor. From meniscus tears to ligament sprains, sports medicine physicians are equipped to diagnose and manage a variety of knee problems. They can also help you prevent future knee injuries with targeted exercise plans and activity changes.
Finding Relief with Shoulder Injury Treatment
Shoulder pain and problems can significantly impact your life. Whether it’s rotator cuff tendinitis, a labral tear, or shoulder impingement, a sports medicine doctor can provide comprehensive shoulder injury treatment. They can help you regain strength, mobility, and function in your shoulder.
How Do You Prevent Injuries?
To prevent injuries and know when to seek care from a sports medicine professional, consider these steps:
- Warm up properly before any physical activity to prepare your muscles for exercise and reduce injury risk.
- Use proper form and technique when exercising or playing sports. Incorrect form can put too much stress on your joints and muscles.
- Listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain. Pain signals that something is wrong, and ignoring it can lead to more serious injuries.
- Wear appropriate protective gear to help prevent injuries from falls, collisions, and other accidents.
When to Seek Professional Care from a Sports Medicine Doctor Near Me
If you experience ongoing pain, swelling, stiffness, or a limited range of motion, you should consult a sports medicine doctor. It’s especially important to seek care if your symptoms interfere with your daily activities or prevent you from participating in sports or exercise.
Seeking care early can help prevent further injury and improve your chances of a full recovery.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain
- Sudden swelling
- Inability to bear weight
- Deformity of a joint
Find a Sports Medicine Doctor in Walnut Creek, CA
Dr. Laura Timmerman is a highly sought-after doctor who specializes in sports medicine. From Olympic athletes to varsity champions, she has successfully helped many patients with professional, experienced, and holistic orthopaedic care.
To schedule an appointment with our sports medicine doctor, please call our office at (925) 952-4080.
