Sports Medicine Series Part 1 - The Role of Sports Medicine Physicians

Tricia Hayton, Registered Physiotherapist
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There are members of the medical community that have added competencies that recognize additional expertise and skill sets which allow them to have a focused practice.   In a recent article from The Journal of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, Marni Wesner wrote, “the leaders in Sports and Exercise Medicine in Canada have been identified and awarded certificates of added competency.”

Does this mean that Sports and Exercise Medicine Physicians only see elite athletes?  No

Again, to quote Wesner, “Sport and exercise medicine (SEM) physicians have specialized training and skills directed towards assessment, diagnosis and treatment of acute, sub-acute and chronic injury and illness as they pertain to participation in an active, healthy lifestyle.  More than expert musculoskeletal assessment, the knowledge and expertise of the SEM physician extends to fracture management, joint reductions, joint and soft tissue injections and interpretation of imaging studies, as well as rehabilitation of injury, nutrition, concussion/head injury, sport psychology and orthotics/braces.  SEM physicians have a keen interest in sport, but also in the lifelong promotion of physical activity for wellness and the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases (i.e. diabetes, hypertension, obesity and arthritis)". 

What does this mean for those of us who are not elite athletes, but are just trying to stay active and enjoy sports with our friends to keep moving and stay healthy?   Our doctors are here to make this easier for you.    They are experts in assessing injuries to muscles and joints to give you a solid diagnosis as well as advice regarding how to minimize damage while also continuing to stay active.   This expertise moves beyond strains and sprains, to advice regarding concussions, osteoarthritis, and chronic joint issues that are preventing you from being as active as you can be.   We have seen a wide variety of patients – from those who are preparing to travel internationally to represent Canada, to the executive that plays squash with friends on the weekend, to the older gentleman who is now struggling to walk through the grocery store due to foot pain. 
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We often get phone calls asking, “Can I come see you even if I am not an athlete?”  The answer is a resounding - YES!   Give us a call and we can book you with one of our Sports Medicine Physicians. 

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