Sports Medicine
With the prevalence of sports participation in most cultures, it is important for athletes, parents, coaches and trainers to have some understanding of the immediate management of injuries and possible strategies for the prevention of injuries. Most people are now aware of the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) regime but extra knowledge of the immediate management of site specific injuries and appropriate routes of referral may help improve the outcome following injury.
In Australia, sports medicine coverage is provided by a number of professionals. In high level or elite sports, on field management of injuries is usually provided by a sports trainer or physiotherapist, with occasional involvement of a medical practitioner (especially in contact sports). The first contact for most other sports people with injuries is the physiotherapist or general practitioner. Further referral may be required to medical practitioners with post-graduate qualifications in Sports Medicine, Sports Physicians or other specialists (eg. Orthopaedic surgeons).
Sports Medicine is a general term which encompasses a number of areas. Sports Medicine involves:
- The diagnosis and treatment of sports injuries
- The diagnosis and treatment of medical problems in athletes (eg. fatigue, asthma, chest pain, hormonal problems in female athletes)
- Prevention of injuries in athletes (eg. With rule changes, improved conditioning and the use of protective equipment)
- Prescription of exercise for special populations (eg. Pregnant women, children, diabetics etc)
- Sports nutrition and fluid requirements for exercise
- Sports psychology
Other personnel who are often involved in managing the sportsperson are:
- Dieticians
- Podiatrists
- Sports Psychologists
- Sports Scientists
Sports Medicine Programs
The programs are available to Medical Practitioners/Physicians registered in country of practice with four years general practice experience or its equivalent by the time of completing the Program.