If you have an injury or another type of musculoskeletal condition, you might be thinking about visiting either a physical therapist or a sports medicine physician. Both types of medical professionals are experts in their field, and both have the potential to help you feel better. But since they are different specialties, it may be better to visit one rather than the other, depending on the nature of your situation. This blog post aims to help you decide where you should turn for appropriate treatment.
What Does a Sports Medicine Doctor Do?
A sports medicine physician is a licensed medical doctor who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries that are related to sports and movement. These doctors have an intimate knowledge of the body’s musculoskeletal system and offer a variety of treatments. They can also help to address medical conditions that may affect an athlete’s performance, such as asthma or diabetes.
Additionally, sports medicine physicians can prescribe medications, perform regenerative medicine treatments, and refer patients to other medical professionals when necessary.
In a nutshell, they provide comprehensive care for active, athletic individuals.
What Does a Physical Therapist Do?
Physical therapists have a different focus than sports medicine physicians. In school, they studied anatomy, biology, biomechanics, physiology, and kinesiology. Their primary job is to help patients perform exercises that can improve the strength, flexibility, and range of motion of various parts of the musculoskeletal system. Their services may be used after an injury, as well as before and after surgery.
Whom Should You Visit?
You may benefit from the services of a sports medicine physician if:
- You are an athlete.
- You have a physically demanding job. For example, you might work in construction or be a nurse.
- You exercise frequently or have hobbies that require a lot of physical exertion.
- You have an injury that might require that you be referred for surgery.
- You struggle with various aches and pains that are related to movement.
If you have functional mobility problems or are recovering from an accident or surgery, you may need the services of a physical therapist. Your general physician or a sports medicine doctor can make the appropriate referrals so you can heal as efficiently as possible.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Paul Tortland has been serving as a sports medicine doctor since 1995, which was when he completed his Sports Medicine Fellowship. He is a highly accomplished physician and is widely regarded as an expert in his field. If you believe you could benefit from his services, the Valley Sports Physicians & Orthopedic Medicine Team is ready to welcome you. Contact our Glastonbury office at 860-430-9690.