Sports Medicine Doctor

Duties and Responsibilities:

Sports physicians can be either primary care doctors or orthopedic surgeons. Their patients are predominantly athletes, and their focus is on promoting and wellness. Completion of a medical degree and residency program are required to work in the field.  Sport physicians treat musculoskeletal injuries that occur as a result of participation in sports, such as knee and shoulder injuries, ankle sprains, head injuries, tendinitis and fractures.  They may also help athletes with psychological or substance abuse issues related to sports. Sports physicians counsel athletes, helping them maximize performance, prevent injuries and lead a healthy lifestyle. They may suggest supplements, diet plans or exercise regimens to address performance issues. They may also help athletes with psychological or substance abuse issues related to sports. Sports physicians collaborate with physical therapists, athletic trainers and other healthcare professionals to plan courses of treatment and rehabilitation for their patients.

Average Salary: $184,820-$200,000

Educational Requirements:

They must take medical school and training school for least 2 years. Doctors may take an exam to earn board certification in their chosen specialty. The next step is to complete a 1-2 year fellowship in either sports medicine or surgical sports medicine.