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SPORTS MEDICINE

The physiatrist is a specialist in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation with a great deal of training and expertise in treating soft tissue, musculoskeletal and neurologic conditions, as well as non-operative and post-operative orthopedic problems.

A physiatrist has extensive training and knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics of soft tissue, musculoskeletal and neurologic conditions that brings a unique approach to the sports medicine field. They are able to do an accurate diagnosis of the specific injury and also to evaluate other contributing factors that might be responsible for the injury, exacerbate or make the individuals more prone to be re-injured.

Some of the contributing factors which are evaluated by the physiatrist include evaluation of training methods, errors, appropriate footwear and use of training equipment. This is possible through evaluations of muscle balance between flexibility, endurance and muscle strength. Additionally a sport specific evaluation would address the specific requirements for the sport regarding the balance between power, flexibility, endurance and strength which varies from sport to sport.

In addition, as a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation with extensive knowledge in treating patients with brain injury, strokes, amputations, spinal cord injury, and neck and back injuries, we are able to evaluate these patients and design specific exercise programs so they are able to participate in sports activities and improve their quality of life.

Part of the training in physical medicine and rehabilitation includes working with a team of health care professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and other physicians including family medicine physicians, orthopedic surgeons, neurologists and chiropractors. The physiatrist’s role on this team is to provide leadership to these health care professionals and physicians to be able to coordinate the best treatment for the patient.

It is this team approach that makes the physiatrist unique in being able to work in great harmony with other specialists such as family medicine physicians and orthopedic surgeons in order to provide the best quality of care for their patients.

For more specific questions on sports medicine topics or conditions, or to arrange for an evaluation with Northeastern Rehabilitation Associates please call 570-344-3788.

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