Know Your Stuff

Primary care sports medicine and orthopedic surgery are two different medical specialties that both deal with injuries and conditions related to the musculoskeletal system. However, there are some key differences between the two specialties.

Primary care sports medicine physicians are family medicine physicians who have completed additional training in the care of athletes and active individuals. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of injuries and conditions, including sprains, strains, fractures, overuse injuries, and concussions. They work closely with athletic trainers, massage therapists, physiotherapists, coaches, and orthopedic surgeons to help return athletes to competition.

On the other hand, orthopedic surgeons are surgeons who have completed additional training in the

 surgical treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. They also diagnose and treat problems with bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles but are more focused on surgical methods to treat injuries such as fractures, ligament tears, and cartilage defects. They also perform joint replacement surgeries, such as knee and hip replacements. They work closely with primary care sports medicine specialists in the care of athletes, with the same goals of restoring function and fun for all.