The field of sports medicine plays a crucial role in the health and performance of athletes at all levels, from amateur enthusiasts to professional competitors. The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) has been a leading advocate for orthopaedic sports medicine professionals for over 50 years, supporting nearly 4,000 members in their mission to prevent and treat musculoskeletal injuries.

Understanding Sports Medicine Careers

Sports medicine encompasses a diverse range of healthcare professionals dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing and performance of athletes. This sector not only focuses on treating injuries but also emphasizes prevention, rehabilitation, and overall health management for individuals engaged in various physical activities.

Career Opportunities in Sports Medicine

AOSSM frequently updates job listings in orthopaedic sports medicine, highlighting opportunities in various roles. These listings are often featured in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, providing members with insight into the latest openings in the field.

Key Roles in Sports Medicine

Effective athlete care involves a collaborative effort among various specialists, each contributing unique expertise. Here’s a closer look at some of the key positions within the sports medicine landscape:

• Team Physician

  The team physician acts as the primary advocate for athletes’ health, overseeing medical care and coordinating treatment strategies. Responsibilities include:

  • Conducting pre-participation physical exams
  • Implementing injury prevention strategies
  • Making return-to-play decisions for injured athletes
  • Providing medical coverage at athletic events

• Orthopaedic Surgeon

  Orthopaedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues, often utilizing non-surgical methods. They are trained to manage a variety of athletic injuries, from fractures to chronic conditions.

• Primary Care Physician

  These physicians provide care for non-surgical sports-related medical issues, such as exercise-induced asthma and minor injuries. Many primary care doctors pursue additional training in sports medicine.

• Physician Assistant

  Physician assistants work under the supervision of physicians, providing care and support in various medical settings, including sports medicine. Their training includes rigorous coursework and clinical rotations.

• Physical Therapist

  Physical therapists play a vital role in rehabilitating athletes recovering from injuries. They work in various environments, including hospitals and clinics, to assist athletes in regaining strength and mobility.

• Certified Athletic Trainer

  Athletic trainers focus on injury prevention and rehabilitation, employing therapeutic techniques to enhance recovery. They often work closely with athletes during training and competition.

• Nutritionist

  Nutritionists are essential in optimizing athletes’ diets to enhance performance and recovery. They typically hold degrees in food sciences and may pursue advanced certifications.

• Sports Psychologist

  These professionals help athletes navigate the psychological demands of competition and recovery from injuries, offering support through counseling and mental skills training.

• Coach

  Coaches not only teach athletes the skills necessary for their sport but also educate them on injury prevention and first aid techniques. Many have extensive experience in their respective sports.

Supporting Roles in Sports Medicine

Several indirect roles also contribute significantly to athlete care, including:

• Exercise Physiologist

  These professionals study how the body responds to exercise and develop programs to improve performance and health.

• Biomedical Engineer

  Biomedical engineers design equipment and technologies that enhance athletic performance and rehabilitation efforts.

• Epidemiologist

  Epidemiologists study injury trends and health outcomes in athletic populations, informing public health policies and practices.

Pathways to a Career in Sports Medicine

If you’re considering a career in sports medicine, here are some steps that may help you on your journey:

• Take classes in first aid, anatomy, and physiology during high school and college.
• Volunteer as a student trainer for your school’s athletic programs.
• Shadow sports medicine professionals to gain insights into their daily responsibilities.
• Engage in sports medicine research projects.
• Attend relevant conferences and workshops to network and learn.
• Volunteer at local athletic events to gain practical experience.

With a commitment to fostering a professional community and providing educational resources, AOSSM continues to support the growth and development of sports medicine professionals dedicated to enhancing athlete health and performance.