Sports Medicine

Sports medicine is a subspecialty of podiatry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries suffered during athletic activity. The goal of treatment is to heal and rehabilitate the injury so patients can return to their favorite activities quickly, whether it's Little League, recreational play, or a high school, college or professional sport.

As with a sports team, there are many physicians who work together to help the patient regain maximum use of the injured limb or joint. "Players" on the team are typically the physician, podiatric surgeon, rehabilitation specialist, athletic trainer, physical therapist and the patient themselves.

There are many sports injuries treated by a sports medicine doctor. Here are some of them:

• ACL Tears
• Compartment Syndrome
• Fractures
• Heat Exhaustion
• Muscle Contusions (Bruise)

• Muscle Cramps
• Shin Splints
• Sprains & Strains
• Stress Fractures
• Torn Tendons & Ligaments

These injuries often occur as a result of a fall, twisting, or hit to a targeted area, as well as from overuse or infection. Different athletic activities may put athletes at an increased risk for certain types of injuries, so it is important to take precautions to prevent injuries from occurring. By consulting a sports medicine doctor in Salisbury, MD, you can better prepare yourself and your body to engage in rigorous physical activity.

Treatment of sports injuries depends on the type, severity, and location of the injury. It may include conservative methods such as rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications, or even surgery for severe injuries. Nearly all patients who suffer from an athletic injury will need physical therapy to restore strength and function to the affected area. Physical therapy uses increasingly difficult exercises to help patients restore their quality of life and return to playing sports.