Orthopedic Sports Surgeons in Orange County, California
Athletes who have sustained injuries should seek treatment from a sports medicine surgeon as soon as possible after the injury. A skilled sports medicine doctor can provide the best chances of making a full recovery and returning to the sport as soon as possible. 
When to See a Doctor
Athletes are often tempted to avoid seeing a doctor for pain that arises during training, especially if the pain develops gradually. Although feeling muscle soreness during training is normal, it is not normal to experience pain, especially sudden pain.
Continuing to train through pain can cause injuries to become more severe, requiring more lengthy and intensive treatment. Therefore, pain should be addressed by immediately ceasing the activity. Severe pain should be treated immediately. More mild to moderate pain can be monitored for several days, with a doctor being consulted after a week or so.
Sports Medicine Basics
It is important to consult a sports medicine surgery about an injury, because athletes have different medical needs than the general population. They are in peak physical condition and require the ability to continue to train at an elite level. Treatment is often more aggressive. In addition, athletes are prone to specific sets of injuries depending on which sport they play.
Choosing a Surgeon
It is important to find a surgeon who is a good fit. Some things to look for when researching doctors include:
- Range of treatments offered – Going to a doctor who has a broad practice ensures that, regardless of the diagnosis or what future problems arise, the patient can keep going back to the same physician.
- Experience – A more experienced physician is usually able to provide better care. At the very least, the office should be headed by an experienced doctor.
- Areas of expertise – If the patient has special needs or a specific medical condition, the doctor should have expertise in treating that condition.
- Board certification – The doctor should be board certified in orthopedic medicine, and have a clean disciplinary record.
- Bedside manner – The doctor should help the patient feel comfortable and heard throughout the treatment process. Feeling uncomfortable with a physician is a valid reason to choose another doctor.
Top Orange County Sports Medicine Surgeon
Howard Marans, MD is the best sports medicine surgeon in Orange County, California. Dr. Marans has helped thousands of patients recover from their orthopedic problems over the course of his two decades in the field. Dr. Marans provides high-quality, individualized care and implements the most minimally invasive treatment methods whenever it is appropriate to do so.
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 call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.