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What a sports medicine doctor does

A sports medicine doctor diagnoses, treats and prevents injuries and medical problems related to exercise and sport, for athletes of any level. Training varies: many are orthopaedic surgeons, physicians or physiatrists with a fellowship or diploma in sports medicine. They work with physiotherapists, nutritionists and coaches to help people recover and return safely to activity.

When to see a sports doctor

• Sprained ankle, knee injury, ligament or muscle tear.
• Shoulder pain, tennis or golfer's elbow, runner's knee, shin splints or heel pain.
• Pain or swelling that does not settle after a week of rest.
• Recurrent injuries or a need to modify training.
• Fainting, chest pain or unusual breathlessness during exercise (needs prompt cardiac evaluation).
• Pre-participation check-ups and return-to-sport clearance.

Treatment approach

Initial care follows rest, ice, compression and elevation, with early guided movement. Treatment includes pain control, physiotherapy, strengthening, taping or bracing, injections in selected cases and surgery, such as ACL reconstruction or arthroscopy, when necessary. Rehabilitation is as important as the procedure itself: returning too early is a common cause of re-injury.

Investigations

Examination is often followed by X-ray, ultrasound or MRI. Blood tests such as vitamin D, calcium, hemoglobin, ferritin and CK may help for fatigue, stress fractures or muscle injury.

Staying injury-free

Warm up properly, increase training gradually, include strength and flexibility work, use suitable footwear, hydrate and eat enough protein, and rest. Avoid unsupervised supplements and steroids. Fees commonly range from about ₹500 to ₹1,500 and may vary. Compare sports medicine doctors and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.