Sports Medicine Doctor vs. Orthopedic Surgeon in Michiana
Orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine doctors are experts at treating injuries and conditions of the musculoskeletal system. However, they have a few key differences. At OSMC, our sports medicine doctors excel at treating injuries and conditions related to an active lifestyle, whether you are an athlete or not. Our orthopedic doctors treat a wide range of injuries to the musculoskeletal system.
What do Sports Medicine Doctors Do?
The top-rated sports medicine doctors at OSMC are experts at diagnosing, treating, and managing orthopedic injuries and conditions that affect physical performance. They work closely with athletes to educate them about injury prevention, safer exercise practices, strength building, and better nutrition. Sports medicine focuses on returning a patient to optimal function, and this experience can also be applied to patients who have suffered non-sports injuries or are dealing with chronic issues like arthritis. Sports medicine doctors will create a non-operative treatment plan that prioritizes maximizing function and reducing your time off the field. Common injuries treated by sports medicine doctors include the following.
Acute Injuries
Injuries like ankle sprains, ACL tears, shoulder arthritis, and bone fractures that do not require surgery.
Overuse Injuries
Injuries such as stress fractures, tennis elbow, rotator cuff injuries, and golfer’s elbow.
Dislocations
These injuries can affect any joint in the body and occur when the joint is knocked out of place.
What do Orthopedic Surgeons Do?
Like sports medicine doctors, our top-rated OSMC orthopedic surgeons focus on diagnosing, treating, rehabilitating, and preventing orthopedic injuries and conditions. In addition to non-surgical treatment methods, they can also use surgical treatments to address orthopedic medical issues. In some cases, orthopedic surgeons may only focus on surgery, and you may work with a sports medicine doctor who refers you to a surgeon when needed. Common issues treated by orthopedic surgeons include the following.
Traumatic Injury
Injuries like severe fractures, ligament tears, torn rotator cuff, and joint dislocations that could require surgery should be addressed by an orthopedic surgeon.
Chronic Conditions
Conditions like arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and osteoarthritis that haven’t responded to conservative treatments can benefit from an orthopedic surgeon performing a total joint replacement.
Should I See a Sports Medicine Doctor or an Orthopedic Surgeon in Indiana?
The decision to see a sports medicine doctor or an orthopedic surgeon will depend on your activity level and treatment needs. Even if you are not an athlete, if your injury is minor and you are very active, you may benefit from treatment with a sports medicine doctor. Alternatively, an orthopedic surgeon may be the better option for those with severe orthopedic injuries or conditions that require surgery. At OSMC, our team can help you decide which provider is best for you. Contact us for more information.
Trust the Leading Orthopedic Surgeons in Michiana
At OSMC, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized care to every patient. Whether you are an athlete who wants to restore or improve function or you’ve been injured at work, our team can help. Book an appointment online today or visit one of our orthopedic urgent care walk-in clinics for immediate treatment.
