8 Things You Didn’t Know About Sports Medicine Doctors

Imagine this: you’re going up for the game-winning shot when you land in an awkward position, injuring your ankle. Or perhaps you’re experiencing pain during your golf swing. These are some of the scenarios that sports medicine doctors see every day.

Whether you’re a professional athlete, a “weekend warrior,” or even someone who has a physically demanding job, you can benefit from our sports medicine doctors in Horry County and Myrtle Beach.

But how much do you know about sports medicine? We’ll take a look at some common questions as well as 8 things you probably don’t know about sports medicine doctors.

What is Sports Medicine?

This is a branch of medicine that concentrates on treating—and preventing—injuries that are related to physical activity, whether that means going to an exercise class or playing on a professional sports team.

What do Sports Medicine Doctors Do?

These orthopedic specialists work closely with those who have some type of musculoskeletal injuries. This will range from osteoarthritis to joint pain.

8 Things You Didn’t Know About Sports Medicine Doctors

Do you know these interesting facts about these experienced specialists?

1. They’re about much more than treating injuries.

Sports medicine doctors want you to avoid injuries. Therefore, they’ll often give you pointers or tips on how to exercise or participate in sports in a manner that will minimize your chances of an accident.

2. They are one part of a comprehensive health care team.

These physicians are only one facet of your sports medicine care. Other professionals who may be actively involved in your care include:

• • • Athletic trainers
    • Registered dietitians
    • Physical therapists

3. They can help you improve your athletic performance.

Because our sports medicine physicians have knowledge about every facet of the specialty, they can provide a plan to help strengthen your muscles and improve your game.

4. Many are board certified in other areas.

These areas may include emergency medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine or orthopedics. Sports medicine can encompass a wide range of disciplines, and this diversity makes sports medicine doctors experts in their chosen field.

5. They tend to focus on nonsurgical treatment.

While some sports medicine doctors may perform surgery, typically, their course of treatment is to find nonsurgical solutions to various problems.

6. They have had extensive training after medical school.

To become a sports medicine physician, they must first complete medical school, then a residency and fellowship. It requires a minimum of eight years of education, more if the physician decides to specialize further.

7. They have made great contributions to medical advancements.

For example, sports medicine pioneers have designed ways to reconstruct ligaments and improved the reconstruction of the ACL in order to treat tears.

8. They treat children as well as adults.

Children and teens frequently have injuries due to sports or playground accidents. There is a subspecialty of sports medicine that focuses on pediatric patients.

What Conditions Do Sports Medicine Doctors Treat?

These expert physicians treat a wide range of medical problems, including, but not limited to:

• • • Fractures
    • Sprains
    • Strains
    • ACL tears
    • Bursitis
    • Foot injuries
    • Shoulder problems and injuries
    • Knee injuries
    • Hand and wrist injuries
    • Concussions
    • Sports-induced asthma
    • Tendonitis

Conway Medical Center: The Leading Sports Medicine Doctors in Horry County / Myrtle Beach

Our Sports Medicine Services offers insight to help improve your sports performance and dramatically reduce the chances of injury. Our focus is on non-operative, sports-related injuries for any athlete, regardless of age or lifestyle.

Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment.