Sports Medicine

What is sports medicine?

Sports medicine is an orthopedic subspecialty that diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal injuries. The musculoskeletal system includes the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. These structures help you move and exercise comfortably. Although tough, they’re susceptible to injury and general wear-and-tear. Working with a sports medicine doctor can help reduce these risks and ensure you live a healthy and active lifestyle.

What can sports medicine doctors treat?

The sports medicine doctors at Pioneer Peak Orthopedics treat various musculoskeletal issues and injuries, including:

• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and injuries
• Tendinitis
• Back pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Shoulder pain
• Wrist pain
• Knee pain
• Hip pain
• Arthritis
• Elbow pain
• Hand pain
• Neck pain

Additionally, the team treats fractures (broken bones), cartilage tears, and other traumatic injuries.

Should I see a sports medicine physician?

Make an appointment at Pioneer Peak Orthopedics if you’re a runner or athlete who regularly participates in races or other forms of organized competition. You may also benefit from sports medicine if you work a physically demanding job or enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking. 

Alternatively, if you’re interested in starting physical activity like a new exercise program, for example, sports medicine can help you safely return to action and reduce your risk of injury.

What can I expect at my first sports medicine appointment?

The Pioneer Peak Orthopedics team tailors sports medicine to each patient’s needs. Even so, most first appointments include a review of your full medical history, a discussion of your symptoms, and a physical exam. Your provider also completes diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to check for tissue damage or underlying medical conditions like arthritis.

After getting this information, your provider develops a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain, promote healing, and help you move comfortably.

What services do sports medicine doctors provide?

The Pioneer Peak Orthopedics team offers various sports medicine services, including:

• Diagnostic imaging
• Evaluation of sports injuries and joint problems
• Physical therapy referrals
• Musculoskeletal injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain
• Prescription medication to reduce inflammation and relieve pain
• Casting and splinting
• Mobility devices, such as crutches, walkers, and canes
• Nutritional education
• Injury prevention education

Most sports injuries improve with conservative treatment. However, if you have a severe injury, like a damaged rotator cuff or a broken leg, surgery might be necessary. The Pioneer Peak Orthopedics team provides several types of orthopedic surgery, including traditional open operations and minimally invasive (arthroscopic) procedures.

Call Pioneer Peak Orthopedics to schedule a sports medicine consultation, or visit the orthopedic walk-in clinic today.