Sports Medicine Physicians

Diagnose or treat disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

Order and interpret the results of laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging procedures.

Advise against injured athletes returning to games or competition if resuming activity could lead to further injury.

Record athletes' medical care information and maintain medical records.

Record athletes' medical histories and perform physical examinations.

Examine and evaluate athletes prior to participation in sports activities to determine level of physical fitness or predisposition to injuries.

Coordinate sports care activities with other experts including specialty physicians and surgeons, athletic trainers, physical therapists, or coaches.

Provide education and counseling on illness and injury prevention.

Participate in continuing education activities to improve and maintain knowledge and skills.

Advise athletes, trainers, or coaches to alter or cease sports practices that are potentially harmful.

Inform coaches, trainers, or other interested parties regarding the medical conditions of athletes.

Examine, evaluate and treat athletes who have been injured or who have medical problems such as exercise-induced asthma.

Supervise the rehabilitation of injured athletes.

Refer athletes for specialized consultation, physical therapy, or diagnostic testing.

Prescribe medications for the treatment of athletic-related injuries.

Inform athletes about nutrition, hydration, dietary supplements, or uses and possible consequences of medication.

Develop and test procedures for dealing with emergencies during practices or competitions.

Attend games and competitions to provide evaluation and treatment of activity-related injuries or medical conditions.

Advise coaches, trainers, or physical therapists on the proper use of exercises and other therapeutic techniques and alert them to potentially dangerous practices.

Observe and evaluate athletes' mental well-being.

Select and prepare medical equipment or medications to be taken to athletic competition sites.

Conduct research in the prevention or treatment of injuries or medical conditions related to sports and exercise.

Prescribe orthotics, prosthetics, and adaptive equipment.

Evaluate and manage chronic pain conditions.

Develop and prescribe exercise programs such as off-season conditioning regimens.

Provide coaches and therapists with assistance in selecting and fitting protective equipment.

Advise athletes on how substances, such as herbal remedies, could affect drug testing results.