Just like you would your primary care doctor, consulting with a sports medicine doctor entails asking questions. After all, the last thing you want is to walk out of the doctor’s office feeling dissatisfied.
What Sports Medicine Doctors Do
Sports medicine physicians are highly trained healthcare providers who focus on the treatment and prevention of injuries and conditions affecting athletes and people who live an active lifestyle. They have expertise in musculoskeletal medicine (orthopedics), exercise physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition.
These doctors work with athletes at all levels– from professionals to recreational enthusiasts. Sports medicine helps individuals recover from injuries, prevents future ones, and improves the level and safety of athletic performance. Sports medicine provides a wealth of information about how to train and compete and how to improve physical endurance and musculoskeletal function,
Questions to Ask Your Sports Medicine Doctor
When you consult a specialist, you want to get the most out of your one-on-one visit as possible. So, prepare a list of questions to ask your sports medicine physician as you discuss your:
- Symptoms
- Medical history
- Results of assessments, such as X-rays
- Risks for injury
- Concerns about how well you will be able to compete
- Treatment options–both surgical and nonoperative
- Your concerns about your longevity as an athlete
Questions to Ask During Your Consultation with Your Sports Medicine Doctor
Can You Explain My Injury or Condition in Detail?
You should understand your sports-related injury or condition well so you can make informed decisions about your treatment. Ask your sports medicine doctor to explain it in simple terms. Also, make sure you fully understand the causes, impact on your life and athletic pursuits, and expected recovery time.
1.) What Are My Treatment Options?
There may be multiple ways to treat your injury or condition, such as physical therapy, medication, regenerative medicine options, and surgery. Discuss all possible choices with your sports medicine doctor and understand the potential risks and benefits of each.
2.) How Long Will My Recovery Take?
This is an important question to ask, especially if you are an athlete and need to plan for your return to sports after surgery and/or rehabilitation. Your sports medicine doctor should be able to give you an estimated timeline for your recovery based on experience with similar injuries or conditions.
3.) Are There Any Non-Operative Treatment Options Available for My Injury or Condition?
If you want to avoid surgery, it is perfectly okay to ask your sports medicine doctor about other available treatments. Ask your doctor about nonoperative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and regenerative medicine – choices which may improve your condition without surgery.
4.) What Can I Do to Prevent Future Injuries?
In addition to addressing your current injury or condition, discuss preventive measures with your sports medicine doctor. This may include exercises, sports gear and lifestyle changes (diet, hydration, frequency of workouts, and more) to reduce your risk of future injuries. Your doctor can provide recommendations based on your specific situation – that is, your sport, your age, your level of physical fitness, and more.
5.) How Often Do You Need to See Me for Follow-up?
After surgery or during rehabilitation, regularly check in with your doctor for progress updates and adjustments to your treatment plan. Make sure to ask how often you should schedule follow-up appointments and what they may entail.
6.) Are There Any Restrictions or Precautions I Should be Aware of During My Recovery?
Depending on your specific injury, condition or surgery, there may be certain restrictions or precautions you need to follow during your recovery. These could include limiting weight-bearing activities, avoiding certain movements or positions, or using assistive devices, such as crutches.
Discuss them with your sports medicine doctor. Follow any guidelines provided to promote a successful recovery.
The Best Sports Medicine Doctor in Florida
If you live in the Naples, FL, area, you can receive top-notch sports medicine care with Dr. Brian Wallace at the Joint Replacement Institute. While he excels in orthopedic surgery, he also has extensive knowledge and experience in nonoperative approaches to sports medicine. He will tailor your treatment plan to your unique physical needs and help you train safely and effectively after recovery.
So, contact the team at the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, FL, to arrange your personalized consultation with Dr. Wallace. He will be happy to answer your questions. Call us at (239) 261-2683 or request a visit online here.
