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What is sports medicine?

Sports medicine is a branch of health care focused on treating athletes and other active individuals. Sports medicine physicians like the team at Innovative Medical Group help their patients to prevent and recover from injuries while encouraging general health and wellness.

You don’t have to be a professional athlete or weekend warrior to benefit from sports medicine. It’s ideal for anyone who regularly works out, goes hiking, or enjoys a physically active lifestyle.

What are some common sports-related injuries?

The team at Innovative Medical Group offers a full list of sports medicine services. They regularly treat and diagnose:

  • Sprains
  • Strains
  • Muscle injuries
  • Shin splints
  • Bone spurs
  • Tendon injuries
  • Ligament injuries
  • Overuse injuries

Concussions are another common sports-related injury the team treats. If you or a loved one suffers a blow to the head, it’s important to seek professional medical help right away. Concussions don’t always present obvious symptoms and are difficult to diagnose.

How are sports injuries treated?

The team at Innovative Medical Group formulates an effective treatment, whether you’re an elite athlete who’s suffered a season-ending injury or you suffered a minor sprain while mowing the lawn. Ultimately, the goal is to efficiently diagnose the source of your discomfort, treat your problem, and prevent it from happening again.

Diagnosis starts with pinpointing the source of your discomfort. Your provider completes a thorough physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you about the symptoms you’re experiencing. If necessary, they can also order an X-ray or an MRI.

After determining the source of your discomfort, your Innovative Medical Group provider develops a treatment plan.

Mild injuries like strains and sprains are usually treated with conservative measures like rest, over-the-counter painkillers, and light exercise. More serious problems can require surgery. For example, if you tear your rotator cuff or ACL, your doctor could recommend an arthroscopic procedure.

No matter the source of your sports injury, physical therapy is always a part of the recovery process. Make sure to attend all of your appointments and work hard, even on the days you’re feeling sore and stiff.

Don’t let pain or discomfort keep you from living the active, athletic life of your dreams. Call the office or schedule an appointment online to request your sports medicine consultation at Innovative Medical Group today.