People go to see sports medicine physicians for all manner of reasons, from athletes recovering from a nasty injury to fitness enthusiasts who want to improve their performance. Sports medicine practitioners can help you with your fitness journey and reduce your health risks.

Sports Injuries Treatment in Urgent Care Centers

Urgent care services play a significant role in treating athletes that require fast medical attention. The facilities provide quick assessment and treatment for action-related injuries that are not life-threatening. Some of the injuries and conditions treated include the following:

• Concussions
• Fractures
• Sprains and dislocations
• Neck and back pain
• Heat illnesses
• Sports physicals and overuse

Over 97% of patients that walk into urgent care centers can receive the treatment they need. Only 3% may require transfer to emergency departments. Sport medicine physicians in urgent care facilities can treat acute and chronic injuries to get you back on the field.

How to Choose the Right Sports Medicine Clinic

Participation in sports and other physical activities may result in aches and injuries that necessitate seeing a doctor. Expert care allows you to get proper treatment for injuries and to reach your fitness goals faster.

Sports medicine can also help you prevent injuries from occurring in the first place. Here are five key factors to keep in mind when choosing a sports medicine practice.

1. Certified Physicians

The doctors available at the facility should be board certified. Additionally, it would be an added advantage if the physician has a certificate of Added Qualification in sports medicine. The certifications offer an assurance that the doctor has the requisite training, skills, and experience to treat sports injuries successfully.

2. Quality of the Facility

The hospital you choose should have the capacity to handle and effectively treat your sports-related injuries.

The quality of care you receive will determine the pace at which you get back to your normal athletic activities. Whenever possible, always ensure you go for an urgent care facility with a specialty unit for sports medicine.

3. Experience

The sports medicine physician present should have experience in treating sports injuries and other action-related health issues. The more years the doctor has in medicating a specific condition or injury, the better your chances at recovery. Ask how many patients the doctor has handled with similar conditions. How many such procedures have they conducted? Choosing a specialist over a general doctor may reduce the number of complications that may arise.

4. Insurance Coverage

Treatment of sports injuries can be expensive, especially if you need a series of surgeries performed. Look for a facility that can accept your insurance plans. It may help lower healthcare costs, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

5. Referrals and Recommendations

Finding the right sports medicine physician can be a complicated process. Luckily, referrals from family, friends, or fellow athletes can help you make the right choice. Your general physician may also point you towards a specialist. However, always try and research the credentials of the recommended practitioners.

Sports medicine plays a crucial role in the health and fitness of athletes. Finding the right clinic and physician is critical in your recovery and to prevent future injuries. Visit Care Station Medical to see experienced sports medicine physicians who provide high-quality care.