Taking a trip to your nearest orthopedic clinic can be a hassle, especially if you don’t have the information you need to make an informed decision. You might visit an orthopedist only to be referred to a sports medicine doctor. To prevent the wastage of time and energy, it helps to know the difference between these two health care providers.
Here are some things that set a sports medicine physician and an orthopedic surgeon apart.
Educational Background And Specialization
Both sports medicine and orthopedic doctors have a vast knowledge of the body’s musculoskeletal system. However, their training differs in focus. Orthopedists treat the average person for a broad range of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Their focus is on eliminating pain and improving function, so patients can perform their day-to-day activities with ease. Bodily components that fall under orthopedics include everything in the musculoskeletal system, including:
- Bones
- Cartilage
- Joints
- Muscles
- Connective tissues
Sports medicine doctors treat the musculoskeletal system, as well, but they focus closely on athletic or physically active individuals. Specific conditions and injuries are more likely to strike athletes. Sports medicine physicians are experts in such conditions and injuries. Sports medicine doctors also specialize in rehabilitating patients and helping them return to an optimal state of performance. The needs of their patients differ from that of the average person in need of orthopedic care.
Who They Treat
A common misconception about sports medicine physicians is that they only tend to athletes. Sports medicine physicians can treat anyone looking to optimize their physical performance. On the other hand, orthopedists provide treatment for musculoskeletal conditions and injuries for people of all backgrounds. However, an athlete may not get the specialized orthopedic care they require to rehabilitate and return to their sport quickly from a general orthopedic doctor.
What They Treat
The services sports medicine and orthopedic doctors provide can vary slightly. Since sports medicine works closely with those who are physically active, they often treat injuries incurred while playing sports, as well as overuse injuries. On the other hand, general orthopedists often treat conditions like arthritis. In general, the conditions sports medicine physicians often treat include but are not limited to:
- Concussions
- Sprain and strain
- Sports-related injuries
- Overuse injuries
- Acute injuries
- Arthritis and tendonitis
- Accident trauma
Additional Services By Sports Medicine Physicians
In addition, sports medicine physicians can provide counseling. They can propose nutritional counseling, create training plans, and offer advice to athletes. This counseling can help you optimize your performance or improve your fitness level. Sports medicine physicians can also handle aspects of medicine that aren’t directly related to the musculoskeletal system. They can determine whether you’re fit to return to play, treat concussions, and help you manage chronic diseases.
Orthopedic Surgeon or Sports Medicine Doctor In Dallas, TX
Seeking professional help for your musculoskeletal concerns can be a struggle if you don’t know where to go. For general orthopedic problems, going to an orthopedic surgeon is your best bet. If you want to boost your physical health and performance, you should visit your nearest sports medicine physician.
Fortunately, many clinics have both sports medicine and orthopedic services that make it convenient for patients. At Reagan Integrated Sports Medicine, you can get both sports medicine and orthopedic care. Rest assured that our team of trained physicians and staff will do everything possible to optimize your care.
To learn more about our practice in Dallas, don’t hesitate to call us at (972) 503-7272. You may also schedule an appointment through our online request form. We look forward to assisting you!
