Best Sports Medicine Doctors in Palm Bay

Introduction to Sports Medicine in Palm Bay

Definition and scope of sports medicine

Sports medicine is a specialized field of healthcare that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries related to sports and physical activities. In Palm Bay, Florida, this medical specialty plays a significant role in supporting the active lifestyle of residents and visitors alike.

Sports medicine physicians, such as Dr. Everett Dejong, are trained to address a wide range of conditions. These may include acute injuries like sprains and fractures, as well as chronic issues such as tendinitis and overuse injuries. They also provide guidance on injury prevention, performance enhancement, and safe return-to-play protocols.

Importance of sports medicine in Palm Bay

Palm Bay, with its favorable climate and numerous recreational facilities, fosters an active community. From beach activities to organized sports leagues, residents engage in various physical pursuits year-round. This active culture underscores the importance of having access to quality sports medicine care.

Specialized sports medicine care offers several advantages to Palm Bay residents. These include targeted treatment plans tailored to specific sports or activities, advanced diagnostic techniques, and a comprehensive approach to recovery and performance optimization. For both competitive athletes and weekend warriors, the expertise of sports medicine specialists can lead to faster recovery times, improved performance, and a reduced risk of re-injury.

Choosing a Sports Medicine Doctor in Palm Bay

Factors to consider when selecting a physician

Credentials and board certifications

• Verify board certifications in relevant specialties
• Example: Dr. Dejong is certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Experience and specialization

• Look for physicians with specific expertise in sports medicine
• Consider additional specializations (e.g., Dr. Dejong's background in Orthopedic Surgery)

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine overall star ratings and number of reviews
• Dr. Dejong's 4.3-star rating from 41 reviews indicates positive patient experiences

Overview of the doctor selection process

Researching online platforms and directories

• Utilize resources like Healthgrades for comprehensive physician information
• Review detailed profiles, including education, certifications, and patient feedback

Consulting with primary care physicians for referrals

• Seek recommendations from trusted primary care doctors
• Discuss specific sports medicine needs and preferences

Checking insurance coverage and network participation

• Verify if potential sports medicine doctors are in-network with your insurance
• Inquire about any out-of-pocket costs or coverage limitations

Top-Ranked Sports Medicine Doctor in Palm Bay

Dr. Everett Dejong

Background and Credentials

• Board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
• Extensive medical education and training
• Fellowship at Keller Army Community Hospital (2001)
• Internship at Tripler Army Medical Center (1990)
• Medical degree from Uniformed Services University of The Health Sciences (1989)

Areas of Expertise

• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Orthopedic Sports Medicine

Patient Satisfaction

• Impressive 4.3-star rating
• Based on 41 patient reviews
• Indicates high level of patient satisfaction and quality care

Practice Information

• Contact number: (321) 434-3350
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English
• Accepts new patients

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Sports Medicine Doctor in Palm Bay

Online Platforms and Directories

Healthgrades

• Detailed physician profiles
• Patient reviews and ratings
• Educational background and certifications

Other Physician Review Websites

• Comparison of multiple doctor review platforms
• Cross-referencing information for accuracy

Local Medical Resources

Palm Bay Medical Center

• Directory of affiliated sports medicine specialists
• Information on available sports medicine services

Brevard County Medical Society

• Local physician directories
• Community health resources

Recommendations from Local Sports Organizations

Palm Bay Parks and Recreation

• Contacts for local sports leagues and teams
• Potential referrals from coaches and trainers

Local High School Athletic Departments

• Insights from school athletic trainers
• Experiences with local sports medicine physicians