Athletes are at an increased risk of certain orthopedic problems compared to people who do not train as extensively. From trauma to overuse injuries, athlete may develop a wide variety of problems affecting the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A skilled orthopedic surgeon for athletes can formulate and administer a plan of treatment, allowing athletes to regain functionality as fully as possible. 
When to See a Doctor
It can be hard to know when to see a doctor for an orthopedic injury. Here are some guidelines for when to see a doctor and what to do about injuries as they develop:
- Pain that is not muscle soreness should be acknowledged, and training should stop
- Severe pain, or pain accompanied by issues such as inability to move a body part, should be evaluated immediately
- A bone that seems broken or deformed should be evaluated immediately
- Injuries to the head or spine should be evaluated immediately
- For mild to moderate pain, use RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
- If mild to moderate pain persists for longer than several days, visit a doctor
Importance of Treatment
Because athletes face such a high pressure to train and compete, they sometimes avoid seeing a physician after an injury. An overuse injury may be dismissed as simply a consequence of training, while traumatic injuries may be dismissed as less severe than they are.
Although putting off treatment is common and may be tempting, it is important for athletes to seek treatment as soon as possible after developing an injury. Continuing to train on an injury can cause the injury to become worse and may lead to further complications. In the long run, this can put the athlete out of commission for even longer, and the chances of making a full recovery may drop.
Finding a Surgeon
The quality of the orthopedic surgeon can impact the patient’s outcome, so finding a skilled orthopedic surgeon for athletes is essential. The amount of experience the physician has is essential. All board certified orthopedists have extensive training and education, but doctors continue to develop their skills as time goes on.
In addition, patients should be sure to choose a doctor who has expertise in sports medicine. Although athletes and other patients can develop some of the same conditions, athletes are more prone to certain injuries. In addition, treatment is sometimes more aggressive because it is aimed at making it possible for the athlete to train and compete with full use of the injured body part. 
Dr. Howard Marans of OC Orthopedic is the top orthopedic surgeon for athletes in Mission Viejo, CA. Dr. Marans has over two decades of experience as an orthopedist, and has worked with hundreds of athletes. Dr. Marans works to ensure that each patient receives high-quality, individualized care that allows them to live as full a life as possible.
Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or give us a call at 714.979.8981 and we will get right back to you.