What it is
Sports medicine looks at how the muscles, bones, joints, tendons and ligaments handle movement and activity. It is not only for professional athletes. Weekend runners, school players, dancers, gym-goers and people who simply like to stay active may all seek it out.
Common reasons people look for this kind of care include sprains and strains, runner's knee, tendon irritation, ACL and meniscus injuries, shoulder problems and concussion concerns. Each of these can look different from person to person, and only a licensed clinician can say what is going on after an evaluation.
Sports medicine includes both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic doctors, along with other professionals such as physical therapists and athletic trainers. Many people with sports injuries are cared for without surgery, while others are referred to a surgeon. Which path makes sense depends on the individual.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, sports injury care has started with a conversation about how the injury happened, followed by a physical exam. Imaging such as X-ray or MRI is sometimes used when a clinician feels it would add useful information.
Approaches that have long been part of this field include rest and activity changes, bracing or supports, physical therapy and guided strengthening, and medications a clinician may recommend. For some injuries, such as certain ACL or meniscus problems, surgery is one option that is discussed. Whether any of these fit a given person is a decision for them and their provider.
Concussion care has traditionally involved careful evaluation, monitoring of symptoms and a gradual, clinician-guided approach to returning to school, work and sport. Return-to-play decisions are usually made step by step with a provider rather than on a set timetable. General recovery ranges vary widely from person to person.
How the right orthopedic doctor may help
The right orthopedic doctor or sports medicine provider may help you understand what is happening, explain the options in plain language and coordinate with other professionals. A visit generally includes questions about your history and activity, a hands-on exam and a discussion of next steps. Nothing is guaranteed, but a clear conversation can make decisions feel less overwhelming.
Helpful questions to bring include: What do you think is going on, and how sure are you? Which tests are needed, and why? What non-surgical options exist, and what are the tradeoffs of each? What might a general recovery range look like, knowing it varies? How will we decide when it is safe to return to my activity?
If surgery is ever suggested, consider asking for a second opinion before moving ahead with a major procedure. Also ask about biologic or 'regenerative' injections such as PRP, stem cell, amniotic, umbilical or exosome products. Many are not FDA-approved for orthopedic uses, and insurance often does not cover them, so ask your provider about their regulatory status and costs up front.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other, and an injury can touch all three. Being sidelined may bring worry, frustration or a loss of identity, and stress and tension can in turn influence how the body feels and moves. Seeing recovery as a whole-person experience can be a gentle way to look at it.
Some people find extra support helpful alongside medical care. Somatic Experiences offers body-based support for people interested in that approach, and Therapists.plus connects people with talk therapy. Neither replaces orthopedic care, and every approach can have a place depending on what feels right to you.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- This page is educational only and is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment recommendation.
- Only a licensed clinician can evaluate an injury and decide what is appropriate for you; recovery times are general ranges that vary person to person.
- Seek care promptly after a head injury, and for severe pain, obvious deformity or inability to bear weight, ask a licensed professional right away. For emergencies call 911.
- If an injury or its stress leaves you feeling overwhelmed or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Orthopedic doctors
We’re welcoming founding orthopedic doctors for sports medicine now. Get matched or list your practice.
Frequently asked questions
What is an orthopedic doctor near me who does sports medicine?
It is a doctor who focuses on bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments and has a special interest in sports and activity-related injuries. Some are surgeons and some provide non-surgical care. You can ask any office which injuries they see most often.
When should I see a sports medicine doctor?
People often consider it when pain, swelling or instability does not settle, or when an injury keeps them from normal activity. A licensed clinician can help decide what is appropriate. For severe injuries or head injuries, seek prompt care, and call 911 in an emergency.
Do ACL and meniscus injuries always need surgery?
No, not always. Whether surgery is discussed depends on the injury, your activity level, your goals and your clinician's evaluation. It is reasonable to ask about non-surgical options and to get a second opinion before major surgery.
What happens at a sports medicine visit?
Most visits include questions about how the injury happened, a physical exam and sometimes imaging if the clinician feels it is useful. You then talk through possible next steps. Bringing a list of questions and notes about your symptoms can help.
How long does return to play take?
There is no single timeline, and recovery varies widely from person to person. Return-to-play is usually decided step by step with a provider based on how you are doing, not only on the calendar. Ask your clinician what general range might apply to you.
Are PRP and stem cell injections approved for sports injuries?
Many biologic or 'regenerative' injections, including PRP, stem cell, amniotic, umbilical and exosome products, are not FDA-approved for orthopedic uses. Insurance often does not cover them. Ask a licensed provider about the regulatory status, the evidence and the costs before deciding.
Educational resource. Best Orthopedic Doctors shares general information and connects people with independent orthopedic doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.