What Does a Sports Medicine Physician Do and When to See One?
- Ezra Miller
- Aug 27
- 5 min read
Highlights
Sports medicine physicians help athletes recover faster, manage injuries effectively, and reduce the risk of reinjury.
They evaluate injuries, use imaging when needed, design rehab programs, and guide safe returns to sport.
Empower Fitness offers personalized sports medicine and physical therapy services to help athletes recover, prevent reinjury, and perform at their best. Book a free consultation!
When an injury sidelines your training or persistent pain keeps you from performing at your best, a sports medicine physician can be the specialist who helps you get back in the game safely.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common injuries sports medicine physicians treat, the procedures and treatments they provide, and when it’s time to schedule a visit.
Let 's go!
What Are the Common Injuries Treated by a Sports Medicine Physician?
The common injuries treated by a sports medicine physician are often the ones athletes face most during training and competition. These conditions can affect mobility, performance, and long-term health if not properly managed:
Sprains and strains: Ligament or muscle/tendon injuries, such as ankle sprains or hamstring pulls.
Fractures and stress fractures: Broken bones caused by impact or repetitive overuse.
Tendinitis: Pain and swelling in tendons from repetitive motion.
Concussions: Mild brain injuries that often occur in contact sports.
Joint Injuries: Shoulder, knee, or hip damage, including rotator cuff or meniscus tears.
Overuse injuries: Conditions such as shin splints, runner’s knee, or tennis elbow.
Contusions: Deep bruises from direct blows or collisions.
Chronic conditions: Long-term issues like osteoarthritis that affect mobility and performance.
The goal of a sports medicine physician is not only to heal the immediate problem but also to help athletes return to training safely, prevent future issues, and maintain peak performance.
What Procedures Can Sports Medicine Physicians Do?
Sports medicine physicians can:
Evaluate injuries: Perform physical exams and order diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds to identify the extent of the injury.
Offer non-surgical care: Provide bracing, taping, and tailored exercise plans to support safe recovery.
Create rehab programs: Collaborate with physical therapists to design structured return-to-play plans.
Manage concussions: Conduct neurological tests, monitor symptoms, and guide a safe return after head injuries.
Coordinate surgeries: Refer athletes to orthopedic surgeons when surgical intervention is necessary and oversee post-operative care.
A champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall. - Serena Williams
Do Sports Medicine Physicians Have an MD?
Yes, sports medicine physicians have an MD (medical degree).
What Is the Difference Between a Sports Medicine Physician and a Physical Therapist?
The difference between a sports medicine physician and a physical therapist is that a physician is a licensed medical doctor trained to diagnose and treat sports injuries, while the physical therapist is a movement expert focused on rehabilitation and performance.
Here is a comparison of the key differences:
Category | Sports Medicine Physician | Physical Therapist |
Training | A medical doctor (MD or DO) with specialized residency and sports medicine fellowship training. | Holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, focused on movement and rehabilitation. |
Main Role | Diagnoses injuries, orders imaging, prescribes medications, performs injections, or refers for surgery. | Uses hands-on techniques, exercises, ultrasound, and manual therapy to restore movement, reduce pain, and prevent injuries. |
Treatment | Medical interventions, stabilization, and short-term recovery. | Hands-on therapy, exercise, and long-term conditioning. |
Collaboration | Often initiates care and refers athletes to PT for rehab; works with PTs to develop return-to-sport plans. | Works under physician referrals or directly, delivering personalized rehab and preventive care. |
Medication | Can prescribe pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and other necessary medications. | Uses non-drug approaches for pain and recovery. |
When to See Them | For acute or severe injuries needing diagnosis and intervention. | For rehab, mobility, prevention, and ongoing performance support. |
When Should I Visit a Sports Medicine Physician?
You should visit a sports medicine physician if you experience an injury or condition that limits your performance, mobility, or overall health. Common reasons include:
Acute injuries such as sprains, fractures, dislocations, or concussions.
Overuse injuries like tendinitis, shin splints, or stress fractures.
Persistent pain in joints, muscles, or tendons that doesn’t improve with rest.
Performance limitations caused by reduced strength, flexibility, or endurance.
Recurring injuries that interfere with consistent training or competition.
Post-surgery recovery requiring specialized sports rehabilitation.
It’s not whether you get knocked down; it’s whether you get up. - Vince Lombardi
Experience the Benefits of Sports Medicine at Empower Fitness with a DPT
At Empower Fitness in South Florida, sports medicine is more than standard rehab; it merges concierge physical therapy with functional fitness, led by Dr. Ezra Miller, Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Our sports therapy program provides one-on-one care tailored to your injury, goals, and sport. You’ll benefit from advanced rehabilitation, performance-focused training, and injury-prevention strategies designed to keep you competing with confidence.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or aiming to elevate performance, our approach helps you return stronger, lower your risk of reinjury, and maintain peak condition throughout your season.
Ready to get back safely and stronger than before? Book a free consultation with Dr. Ezra today!
What to Expect at a Sports Medicine Appointment?
At a sports medicine appointment you can expect to discuss your injury, symptoms, and goals, followed by a physical exam to check pain, mobility, and joint stability. If needed, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs may be ordered.
Based on these results, the physician will give you a personalized treatment plan, which may include rest, physical therapy, bracing, injections, or a referral for surgery.
FAQs About Sports Medicine Physicians
Can Sports Medicine Physicians Perform Surgery?
No, sports medicine physicians can’t perform surgery. They provide non-surgical treatments but may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon if surgery is needed.
Is a Sports Medicine Physician the Same as an Orthopedist?
No, a sports medicine physician is not the same as an orthopedist. Sports medicine doctors treat injuries non-surgically, while orthopedists are trained to perform surgery.
Can a Sports Medicine Physician Prescribe Medication?
Yes, a sports medicine physician can prescribe medication, including pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, when needed.
Do Sports Medicine Physicians Treat Back Pain?
Yes, sports medicine physicians treat back pain, especially when it’s related to sports or physical activity.
Do I Need a Referral for a Sports Medicine Doctor?
No, you don’t need a referral for a sports medicine doctor, and you can usually book an appointment directly. However, some insurance plans may require a referral to cover the visit, so it’s best to confirm with your provider before scheduling.
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