How to Find a Sports Medicine Physician
Tips for finding a good doctor
By Elizabeth Quinn, About.com Guide
The best way to find a sports medicine physician, orthopedic surgeon, or podiatrist is to get referrals. Ask your personal physician, friends, co-workers and especially local athletes for personal recommendations. It is important to choose a doctor who treats athletes (not all orthopedic surgeons do) so you need to ask questions. The local University may have a sports medicine clinic, so call or look online for their information. You can also search through online database listings, including the American Medical Association, the Physician and Sports Medicine, the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine and other specialty groups.
Qualified physicians will be members of the American Medical Association and/or American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Once you find a recommended doctor you should ask questions about their experience and credentials to make sure their background matches your situation. Ask how many patients they have treated with the same problems as you and what are their outcomes. Ask how they will develop a treatment plan and what they do, step-by-step until your condition is resolved.
You will want to determine if you feel comfortable with their communication style and personality. While this isn’t always the best indication of a qualified physician, it does help you feel more comfortable if you have concerns or questions. Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion if you aren’t satisfied or aren’t comfortable with the suggested plan.
Keep in mind that medicine is an art as well as a science. While a qualified, experienced professional will offer well-founded recommendations and advice, sometimes there isn’t a clear answer for what ails you. You should always consider your relationship with your doctor a partnership and you need to work together to find the best path for you.
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