Role of Health Care Providers or Sports Medicine Team Members

Role of Health Care Providers or Sports Medicine Team Members

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Sports Medicine

Sports medicine is multidisciplinary approach to health care for those seriously involved in exercise and sport

Health care professionals from many disciplines are involved in the care of the athlete.


Athlete’s Circle of Care

Those individuals involved in the care of the athlete.



The Role of Health Care Providers in the Athlete’s Circle

of Care

The primary role of the health care providers involved in the care of athletes is to promote lifelong fitness and wellness, and to encourage prevention of illness and injury.


Team Doctor

A physician specializing in sports medicine who helps the athlete maximize function and minimize time away from the sport.


Family Doctor

The primary physician involved in the athlete’s care

Family doctors have the athlete’s complete history and are in a better position than team doctors to supervise long-term care.


Physician Assistant

The physician assistant (PA) works interdependently with a physician to provide diagnostic and therapeutic care.

Also gather information regarding athlete’s injury and historical background of athlete to help the physician.


Physical Therapist

The physical therapist (PT) is responsible for performing treatments such as therapeutic exercises, hydrotherapy, and electrotherapy.


Physical Therapy Assistant

The physical therapy assistant (PTA) works with physical therapists, assisting in the development of treatment plans for injured patients.


Massage Therapist

The massage therapist works with physicians, nurses, and physical therapists to promote health and healing and to help manage stress.


Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialists

(Fitness Trainer)

A certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) designs and implements safe and effective strength and conditioning programs.


Sports Nutritionist

The sports nutritionist designs special diets capable of enhancing athletic performance.

Proper diet can result in better performance.


Sports Psychologist

The sports psychologist works with athletes who are recovering from serious injury, giving emotional support and helping with goal-setting and motivation.


Athlete

An athlete must know the principles of prevention to avoid injuries.

He/ She must know the first aid of some of the common injuries

He/ She must know the application of RICE.

He/ She should have the knowledge regarding training method.


The Role of Parents in the Athlete’s Circle of Care

Parents should maintain open communication with the athletic training staff regarding injury risk, athletic development, proper nutrition, and treatment of injuries.

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Role of Health Care Providers or Sports Medicine Team Members