Sacramento Orthopedic Sports & Shoulder|Call: 916-732-3005

What is Sports Medicine?

Sports medicine is a branch of medicine addressing physical fitness and the treatment and prevention of injuries related to sports and exercise.  Sports medicine is not specific to professional athletes but is geared toward anyone engaged in exercise or physical activity.  The goal is to assist athletes of all capabilities to achieve their peak performance through proper exercise, nutrition, and safety.  In addition, when you experience an injury during exercise or playing a sport, a sports medicine specialist will help you return to your routine and athletic pursuits as soon as safely possible.  Sports medicine specialists also have a deep understanding about preventing illness and injury in active individuals and those with physically demanding jobs.

Who are Sports Medicine Specialists and who makes up the medical team?

Sports medicine specialists have obtained a certification as physicians to specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of sports and exercise related injuries and illness.  Specialists consist of orthopedic surgeons, emergency medicine doctors, family practice physicians and professionals in other medical specialties that specifically obtain experience during their training to help with athletes and people with activity induced injuries.

A sports medicine team is generally comprised of both physicians and nonmedical specialists, including certified athletic trainers, physical therapists, nutritionists, sports psychologists and personal trainers.  The goal of a sports medicine team is to work together to help you get back to your physical activities as quickly as possible.

What are Sports Injuries?

Sports injuries not only occur during an athletic event but also can be caused during training, exercise, or work-related causes.  These injuries can be the result of inadequate training, overuse injuries, repetitive motions, insufficient stretching or warming up, as well as injuries sustained on a job.  Being active and playing sports are great ways to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals both physically and mentally.  However, there is an inherent risk of injury while participating in sporting activities.  Common injuries usually are related to fractures of the bone, tears of ligaments/tendons/muscles, and concussions.  Classic examples of sports injuries that Dr. Takenishi treats are anterior cruciate ligament tears, meniscus tears, cartilage injuries, patellar and shoulder dislocations, sprains and tears, fractures and many other ligament injuries.

Prevention of Sports Injuries

Sports medicine specialists will guide an individual back to their activities and advise patients on programs that will help to prevent future sports injuries.  This commonly involves a gradual increase in an exercise program that steadily improves strength and fitness without overloading the individual.  Stretching is of utmost importance during training and this also involves proper warm up and cool down programs to help prevent injuries.  Eating a healthy diet and utilizing proper equipment also play a major role in preventing injuries.  Proper rest and recovery are important while playing any sport or engaging in any heavy activities.

When to call a Sports Medicine Healthcare Provider? 

If you or your family member has sustained a major injury during exercise or sports, it is best to seek emergency care right away.  Common symptoms are severe pain, numbness, inability to put weight on an injured area, or inability to move a joint properly.  Do not wait to see a sports medicine specialist. If you do not have any of these immediate symptoms, then you may ask your healthcare provider to be referred to a sports medicine specialist.

Treatment for Sports Injuries

Most sports injuries do not require any surgical management.  The focus will be on decreasing pain, decreasing swelling and improving symptoms with rest, ice, elevation and modification of activities.  Once the immediate symptoms have subsided and symptoms improve, then the focus will be on regaining the athlete’s ability to start the rehabilitation process.  This usually involves some formal physical therapy to begin a regular exercise program as well as activating the muscles required for their sport.  Certified athletic trainers and personal trainers can be involved during this process.  The goal is to return the athlete or individual to their sport or activity as soon as possible and when it is safe to do so.

Surgical management can be a first line of treatment for severe injuries that include tears, bone fractures, ligament injuries and soft tissue injuries that are not amenable to nonoperative management.  A sports orthopedic surgeon will perform the surgery and help guide the athlete through their postoperative recovery.  Physical therapists, athletic trainers, and personal trainers can be involved in the recovery process to make sure the individual progresses appropriately and does not return the athlete to their activities until they have met certain physical fitness goals.

Why Choose Us?

At Sacramento Orthopedic Sports and Shoulder, we understand the unique demands placed on athletes’ bodies and the impact of sports-related injuries. Dr. Takenishi’s expertise spans across various areas, including:

    1. Comprehensive Sports Medicine Care:
      • Dr. Takenishi has over 12 years of experience working with athletes, trainers, athletic directors, coaches and physical therapists.  He understands the team dynamics and what is necessary to reach the highest level of sport.  This enables him to effectively prevent and manage athletic injuries, guiding you through a successful recovery.
    2. Expert Shoulder Care:
      • Our practice specializes in diagnosing and treating shoulder conditions such as rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, shoulder instability, arthritic shoulders and shoulder impingement. Dr. Takenishi’s expertise ensures that your shoulder receives the utmost care and attention it deserves.
    3. Performance Enhancement:
      • Whether you’re a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, Dr. Takenishi is well-versed in enhancing athletic performance through conditioning, training, fitness, and nutrition guidance. He considers a holistic approach to helping athletes achieve their full potential by relying upon a team approach through any sporting injuries.  He incorporates a multifaceted approach to maximize performance and health, ensuring you are at the top of your game.  This is even more important when dealing with sporting injuries that require surgical management and a stepwise approach to getting you back on the field when you are ready.
    4. Team Approach to Care:
      • We believe in a collaborative approach to healthcare. Dr. Takenishi coordinates care with other healthcare professionals, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive treatment plan for your specific needs.
    5. State-of-the-Art Facilities:
      • Our clinic is equipped with advanced technology and state-of-the-art facilities, providing you with the highest standard of care in a comfortable environment.
    6. Compassionate Care:
      • At Sacramento Orthopedic Sports and Shoulder, we value your well-being above all else. Dr. Takenishi and our team are dedicated to providing compassionate care and personalized attention throughout your treatment journey.