Sports physician

A sports physician specializes in the examination and treatment of sports-related complaints. This applies to elite athletes, recreational athletes, and people who want to start exercising.

A sports physician can help people with a sports injury or chronic disease, people who want to start exercising after a long time, or those who want to know how fit they are. You can visit a sports physician for a sports medical examination, which assesses the musculoskeletal system and heart and lung function. It is also the right place to seek advice about a persistent injury.

Examination by the sports physician

To determine the problem, the sports physician first asks questions about the nature and onset of the symptoms. This is followed by a physical examination and, if necessary, additional testing such as an MRI scan, X-ray or blood test.

Treatment by the sports physician

Based on the examination results, treatment is started. This may be a training schedule for running a marathon or specific advice and exercises to recover from an injury.

Where and with whom does a sports physician work?

A sports physician often works with an orthopedist and refers the patient if surgery is needed. A cardiologist or pulmonologist is involved for heart or lung problems. A sports physical therapist may be involved in treating an injury. Sports physicians work in sports medicine centers or hospitals.