As an Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine, I treat injuries sustained during athletic and sporting activities, ranging from the professional athlete to the weekend warrior. Â My approach focuses on returning my patients to an active lifestyle as quickly as possible, keeping in-mind that our bodies have an amazing capacity to heal and recover if given the opportunity. Â Whenever possible, I try to avoid invasive treatments, and focus on rest, rehabilitation, and functional recovery strategies. Â I try to employ regenerative medicine techniques when it is supported by the literature, and only recommend surgical management when absolutely necessary.
Specialized Care In Sports Medicine
In an ideal situation, the care of an injured athlete requires coordination between multiple providers. Â In my practice, it is imperative to communicate with an athletes parents/family, their physical therapist, and the athletic training and coaching staff. Â This allows for an individualized approach to each athletes situation, taking into account their injury, seasonal timing, short and long-term goals, and future considerations related to their injury and sport. Â The most common injuries that I see in the sports population include:
- Torn tendons and ligaments in all joints
- Fractures
- Shoulder dislocations and instability
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Stress fractures
- Muscle strains and ruptures
While most injuries in the athletic population can be treated non-operatively, many sports injuries are often repairable with arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive procedure that allows me to diagnose and treat many joint-related injuries without the need for large incisions and soft tissue injury.
Prevention Of Injuries In Sports Medicine
In order to prevent sports injuries, it is important for athletes to take care of themselves before, during and after physical activity; this helps to ensure long-term athletic health. Some of the most effective injury prevention tips include the following:
- Staying hydrated
- Taking time to rest
- Warming up before exercising
- Listening to your body
The relationship between the athlete and his/her athletic training staff is of utmost importance in keeping the in-season athlete on the playing field at the highest level possible.
