Formerly known as Alaska Hand-Elbow-Shoulder & Rhyneer Caylor Clinic.

What Is Sports Medicine?

Unresolved sports injuries may be an indication that you need to see a sports medicine specialist to avoid future complications. This blog post will inform you about what sports medicine is, and when you may need to seek treatment for a condition resulting from a sports injury.

Let’s Define Sports Medicine

Sports medicine is the branch of medical practice specialized in treating and preventing injuries and illnesses related to physical activity, sports, or regular exercise. Although it’s typical for athletes to sustain injuries on the field or track and to be treated by an athletic trainer, follow-up with a sports medicine specialist may still be recommended. Doctors specializing in sports medicine can assess and treat specific body parts, reducing the pain and dangers of limited mobility that can come after suffering injuries. Sports medicine physicians have specialized training and equipment to treat the wrist, shoulder, knee, ankle, and other sensitive joints and muscles, eliminating pain and restoring functionality and range of movement.

When Should You See A Sports Medicine Specialist? | Sprained Ankle Specialist in Anchorage

Sports can cause an array of injuries. From sprains to fractures to dislocations, sports injuries can cause a myriad of musculoskeletal problems, affecting mobility and generating pain. Here are some examples of when you should seek a Sports Medicine Specialist:

  • Ankle sprains
  • Fractures
  • Knee injuries
  • Shoulder pain

Sports medicine specialists can also determine when it is safe for a patient to return to sports.

If you are struggling with a sports injury, Dr. McNamara, Dr. Gray, and Dr. Caylor, and our team at Alaska Orthopedic Specialists can assist you. They can give you top-quality knee pain treatment in Anchorage and surrounding areas.

What distinguishes an Orthopedic Surgeon from a Sports Medicine Physician?

Sports medicine is the thin line between the science and practice of sports and exercise. Both approaches are skilled in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and are trained in aspects of medical rehabilitation. However, sports medicine physicians are specialists in the treatment of injuries that do not require surgery. Meanwhile, orthopedic surgeons are trained to perform both surgical and non-surgical musculoskeletal therapies.

Get The Care You Need To Regain Mobility

Suffering from a sprained ankle? Looking for treatment for a torn meniscus in Anchorage? As Sports Medicine specialists, we can help you recover from all types of sports injuries. You can get adequate musculoskeletal rehabilitation and relieve yourself of pain and suffering. Our providers work closely with physical and occupational therapists to make treatments quick and painless. Don’t allow chronic pain or injuries stop you from enjoying and performing at your best in your favorite sport. Please visit Alaska Orthopedic Specialists, make an appointment here or call us at (907) 771-3500.