4 Habits That Support Strong Healthy Shoulder Joints
Daily habits influence shoulder health. Certain habits may harm shoulder health, while others can enhance it. Find out which habits to adopt to keep your shoulders strong and healthy.
I'm an Athlete: How Does Sports Medicine Work?
Sports medicine physicians are orthopedic experts who work with athletes and those who have musculoskeletal ailments. They're specially trained to deal with any sports-related ailment, including joint pain, osteoarthritis, and nutrition.
Sports physicians are most recognized for advising and treating recreational and professional players who have sustained a sports injury, but they also diagnose and treat "weekend warriors" and retirees who are sore or injured after playing tennis or golf.
Matthew Pifer, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon caring for patients in the Santa Barbara, California community. As a sports medicine specialist, Dr. Pifer’s top priority is to get our patient athletes back in the game as quickly and safely as possible. Keep reading to learn what sports medicine can do for you.
Sports medicine 101
Injuries are incredibly common in sport, and when you sustain an injury, you want to get back into the game as soon as you can. That’s where sports medicine comes in. Common injuries we treat in sports medicine include:
- Ankle sprains
- Rotator cuff tears
- Tendonitis
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Injuries to cartilage
- Knee injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Exercise-induced asthma
- Fractures
Our treatments are individualized to your specific needs, tailored with consideration for the sport you participate in.
What can sports medicine do for you?
In addition to treating sports injuries, sports medicine physicians can help you prevent injury and stay in tip-top shape by:
- Supervising rehabilitation
- Performing physical examinations
- Examining your athletic medical history
- Ordering diagnostic imaging and analyzing results
- Prescribing medication to treat athletic injuries
- Coordinating with coaches and athletic trainers
- Evaluating your nutrition and exercise regimen
- Evaluating and treating musculoskeletal disorders
Your sports medicine doctor is on your team and in your corner to help you keep the edge in your sport.
Innovative treatments
Dr. Pifer incorporates the latest in regenerative orthopedic medicine to help you heal faster and return to your sport quickly and safely. We offer platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and stem cell therapy. These treatments reduce inflammation and enhance the body’s ability to heal itself.
Sports medicine isn’t just for athletes
To see a sports medicine doctor, you don't have to be a competitive athlete. You don't even have to be an athlete.
Dr. Pifer sees a wide range of patients and many do not participate in competitive sports, but they do suffer from acute or chronic injuries as a result of exercise, training, or even their occupations.
Whether you sustain a repetitive stress injury or a sudden injury from an accident, we can help you recover.
Rely on our top-quality team for comprehensive sports medicine care. To get started, give us a call at 805-967-9311 to schedule a visit with Dr. Pifer or book your request online.
You Might Also Enjoy...
PRP for Shoulder Pain: Here's What You Should Know
Dealing with persistent shoulder pain can impact your daily activities. PRP therapy taps into your body’s regenerative power, relieving pain without surgery or long-term medications.
Do These Stretches Every Day to Reduce Your Risk for Shoulder Injury
Maintaining healthy shoulders is essential for staying active and pain-free. Incorporating targeted stretches can protect your shoulders from strain, keeping them flexible and resilient against potential injuries.
A Closer Look at Your Shoulder's Anatomy (And What Can Go Wrong)
The shoulder is incredibly flexible, but it isn’t indestructible. In fact, increased flexibility makes it vulnerable to some common problems. Learn what can go wrong and what you can do about it.
Myths and Facts About Stem Cells
Stem cell therapy offers an innovative option for treating orthopedic conditions, especially shoulder and knee issues. Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury or dealing with arthritis pain, stem cell therapy can enhance your healing.
Do You Throw A Lot? Here's How You Can Avoid Damaging Your Shoulder
As a thrower, your shoulder is your most valuable asset. However, because the shoulder is susceptible to a wide range of injuries, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent them. Keep reading to learn more!