What Are The Benefits Of Seeing A Sports Medicine Specialist?

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A sports injury can be a career-ending accident if the proper measures are not taken.  It is important to seek out quality orthopedic services for performance-related injuries. A sports medicine specialist is familiar with treatment for common injuries and is able to provide customized care to facilitate optimum rehabilitation. Here are some of the reasons that you should find an orthopedic specialist who has a focus in sports medicine:

• Reduced chances of long-term injury: Many sports accidents result in strains and sprains that can lead to chronic pain if not treated properly. Sports medicine incorporates immediate treatment with prolonged solutions to restore and strengthen affected muscles, bones, and connective tissues.

• Improved performance: Aside from providing care for injuries, physicians who specialize in sports medicine can recommend techniques for enhancing your athletic abilities and offer solutions to keep you in your best physical shape. This will help you train more effectively, which will result in a stronger performance when it counts. 
  
• Injury prevention: When it comes to sports injuries, prevention is the most effective way to avoid long term problems. Your physician can recommend a skilled trainer to help you get the most out of your practice and performances without risking physical damage to your body. Additionally, athletes who have previously experienced injuries are more likely to suffer another performance-related accident. Working with a sports medicine specialist can help you prevent a secondary injury with expert advice and advanced medical treatment.

If you are an athlete in the Phoenix area, then contact The Orthopedic Clinic Association. We have a diverse staff of orthopedic surgeons and specialists who serve the Suns, the Mercury, and many of Arizona State University’s sports teams. Learn about our advanced imaging, bracing, and physical therapy on our website or call us at (602) 277-6211.

Running Shoe Essentials

Feet come in all shapes and sizes. Consequently, running shoes need to be individualized for each runner. In general, common foot types include flat feet, high arches, neutral foot type, pronators, or supinators. There are several ways to determine your foot type. The footprint test allows you to look at an outline of your feet. Many running stores have computerized footplates and video analysis to determine foot type. Additionally, inspecting your running shoes is an accurate way to determine your foot type and strike pattern. Knowing about your foot type is critical to picking out running shoes.

There are several different categories of running shoes. In addition to fitting your foot type, you should also consider your training needs and injury history. Motion Control Shoes are rigid and durable and control pronation. Barefoot Running Shoes have recently gained popularity. Those who prefer these use them for comfort, and feel cushioned running shoes are harmful. Trail Running Shoes have increased threads, and help with difficult surfaces. Stability Running Shoes are the most common. They have moderate support and are made for neutral foot types without significant flexibility. Cushioned Shoes are typically used for high arches without significant pronation.

Running shoes should be replaced between 300-600 miles, depending on running style, terrain, and weight. It is helpful to alternate shoes to prevent wear and decrease stresses on your feet. Avoid blisters by not wearing new shoes on long runs. Consult a running shoe specialist to determine what shoe is the best for your needs to improve performance and decrease the risk of injury.

- Dr. Anikar Chhabra, M.D., M.S.

Dr. Tom Carter - Head Team Physician for the Phoenix Suns NBA Team

Introducing Dr. Tom Carter's personal website: www.phoenixsunsdoc.com. Dr. Carter is the Phoenix Suns Doc (Head Team Physician for the Phoenix Suns NBA Team) and Orthopedic, Sports Medicine Physician at TOCA (www.tocamd.com)

Examining The Benefits Of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy may be part of a treatment plan for a variety of patients, including those who have suffered a sports injury, chronic pain, arthritis, or back pain. There are several different modalities used in physical therapy, so it can be fine-tuned for personalized treatment depending on the patient’s needs. Below are just some of the reasons why physical therapy is an effective solution for easing the pain caused by musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.
1. Adaptable to any skill level: Patients ranging from senior citizens to professional athletes can benefit from physical therapy. Usually sessions are performed on a one-on-one basis, so the therapist can work closely with the patient to understand his or her physical capabilities and limitations. An individual treatment plan will be designed for each case based on the exact needs of the patient.

2. Chronic pain relief: Managing chronic pain can be a challenge because it typically does not respond to traditional medications and treatments. Physical therapy can address the root of chronic pain and ease soreness for the patient with many different techniques. Exercise and stretching are only a part of a physical therapy session. Massage and muscular manipulation performed by the therapist can help naturally reduce inflammation and pain.

3. Improved endurance and strength: Aside from helping to treat injuries, physical therapy can help you build strength to prevent future problems from occurring. Over time you will notice better flexibility, improved range of motion, and higher stamina.

4. Tips for at home care: Throughout your physical therapy plan, your therapist will show you exercises and stretches to perform at home to further the benefits of your sessions. This can help you recover faster and understand how to stay in shape for life.


The physical therapists of The Orthopedic Clinic Association, or TOCA, offer compassionate care backed by years of experience in the field. Schedule a consultation to design a treatment plan that suits you by calling (602) 277-6211

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