What is Sports Medicine?

Sports Medicine is the section of medicine which specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of injuries related to participating in sports and/or exercise.

Do I have to be an athlete to visit The University of Arizona Medical Center - Sports Medicine Clinic?

No. Our physicians treat all kinds of patients with all kinds of injuries. Athletes and non-athletes alike receive the same high level of care and service.

How is sports medicine different?

When athletes and active adults are hurt, they need comprehensive treatment that will help return them to their sports and other activities as quickly as possible. We have years of experience in sports-related injuries and conditions related to physical activity. Our physicians develop treatment and rehabilitation plans tailored to each patient using state-of-the-art equipment, advanced techniques and a team approach to care.

My doctor said I should rest this injury. Isn’t there anything else I can do?

Rest is always an important component in healing an injury. Resting helps reduce pain and prevents side effects including de-conditioning or atrophy, when muscles decrease in mass and lose tone. In addition to rest, adding therapeutic exercise or treatment at the right time is important in helping you avoid re-injury.

Should I use ice or heat on my injury?

We recommend ice for the first day or two after you suffer an acute injury. Applying ice helps reduce the amount of swelling after an injury. An easy reminder for reducing swelling and pain is “RICE” – Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. You can use moist heat after the first 72 hours to increase the blood flow to the injured area to reduce pain and stiffness.

How do I know if I need an X-Ray?

If you can’t put your weight on the injured limb after an injury or by the time you see your doctor, he or she will probably order an X-ray. See your doctor if you have persistent pain, swelling, discoloration or a locking or catching sensation.

When will I be back to normal after an injury?

Returning to normal activity depends upon many factors. Our specialists evaluation is based on an accurate assessment of each patient’s injury and goals. We then develop a treatment and rehabilitation plan designed to safely return patients to physical activity and help avoid re-injury.

What types of injuries do you treat?

We treat a variety of injuries and conditions, ranging from sprains and strains to more severe injuries such as ligament ruptures and chronic degenerative conditions like arthritis.

How do I know if I need treatment?

If you have pain or discomfort that limits your everyday or recreation activities or if you've experienced acute trauma, your doctor may refer you to us for treatment. You can call The University of Arizona Medical Center - Sports Medicine Clinic directly for an appointment at 520-874-9000.

The above information is not to be used as a diagnostic tool. Your physician is your best source for evaluation, diagnosis and appropriate treatment.