Sports And Exercise Medicine

Many health disciplines are involved in managing sport and exercise injuries, but Sport and Exercise Medicine Physicians (SEMPs) are experts in diagnosis- identifying exactly what the problem is. They start with the lead up to injury or pain, identify predisposing factors, take a thorough history and examination, and can order any tests that are indicated. They will create an individualised treatment plan, suggest strategies to prevent recurrence and if required, can refer you to the right health professional for any further care.

The evolution of Sports and Exercise Medicine began at the elite sports level, with dedicated athlete care translating into better individual or team performance. Specialist injury treatments backed by a wealth of sports science knowledge has enabled countless athletes to recover, train and play at peak levels, thus prolonging their careers and long term health. Today, Sports and Exercise Medicine utilises established medical science, alongside cutting-edge developments, to treat not only professional athletes, but recreational sports men and women, dancers, injured workers and those with musculoskeletal pain.

Additionally, existing medical conditions that impact exercise, such as asthma and diabetes are treated. Sports and Exercise Medicine Physicians are highly qualified and trained physicians with expertise in a wide range of concerns as they relate to exercise and health, including:

• General Medicine
• Orthopaedics
• Nutrition
• Biomechanics
• Sports Psychology
• Rehabilitation
• Pain management
• Exercise prescription

The active Australian sporting culture has facilitated the rise of Sports Medicine as a specialist medical field in this country. As leaders in the field, Australian Sports and Exercise Medicine Physicians are at the forefront of change, assisted by the latest advances in science. This dedicated approach to treating athletes and physically active people provides tremendous insight into the cause and treatment of injuries. This is especially noticeable in the keystone role of diagnosis – finding out exactly what the problem is.

The multidisciplinary approach to medicine is highlighted in Sports and Exercise Medicine. A comprehensive overview of the patient assists specialists to accurately diagnose and treat injuries, while also identifying other medical factors that may cause or exacerbate the problem. Holistic strategies aim to treat the entire individual rather than simply masking injury or pain symptoms.

A consultation at North Sydney Sports Medicine can provide patients with a sound overview of their condition, plus suggest a range of health strategies moving forward. The consultation process may include:

• Diagnosis of injury
• A thorough clinical examination
• Treatment of injury symptoms
• Investigation recommendations
• Management strategies related to the injury or ailment
• Patient education to help avoid future injury occurrence
• Assessment and treatment of chronic medical conditions
• A personalised exercise and recovery program
• Access to allied professional health services such as physiotherapy, podiatry and nutrition
• Communication with your GP and existing or referring health and exercise professionals.

Dedicated sports medicine centres facilitate across-the-board treatment plans under one roof, providing treating doctors with convenient access to patient information and immediate and accurate professional advice from colleagues.

If physical activity were a pill, we would all be taking it!

Physical activity is of proven benefit in optimising health and preventing and treating chronic diseases such as depression, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, obesity and even some cancers.

As Sports and Exercise Medicine grows to facilitate the treatment needs of active people, exciting developments follow. Already acknowledged as a valuable adjunct to mainstream medicine, Sports and Exercise Medicine is also making inroads into health improvements for the general population. The value of exercise as medicine has long been appreciated, but only recently is it becoming fully understood.

Broader public health strategies aimed at the general population are spearheaded by Sports and Exercise Medicine Physicians. Programs designed to encourage a healthy population are sprouting up everywhere; from schools to the armed forces – even aged care facilities. Quality of life is a premium goal attainable by anyone regardless of age, and governments are also noticing the economic benefits of a fit and healthy population.

Scientific and technological advancements, dedicated sports medicine clinics and the recognition of Sports and Exercise Medicine as a bona-fide career pathway, have all led to some of our best and brightest doctors entering the field.

Sports and Exercise Medicine Physicians understand that everyone wants to lead an active and pain free life, no matter what level of physical participation they enjoy. From professional football and competition tennis to community touch football, walking or playing with the grandkids, our Sport and Exercise Physicians will work with you to get you back on your game!