Best Sports Medicine Doctors in Columbia

Introduction to Sports Medicine in Columbia, Missouri

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 activity.

Sports medicine physicians treat a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, concussions, overuse injuries, and exercise-related health issues.

Importance of sports medicine in Columbia

Columbia, Missouri, is known for its active community and thriving sports scene, making sports medicine an essential healthcare service in the area.

Specialized care provided by sports medicine doctors can help athletes and active individuals recover faster, prevent future injuries, and optimize their performance.

Overview of sports medicine services available in Columbia

Columbia offers a comprehensive range of sports medicine services, including non-surgical treatments, rehabilitation programs, and advanced surgical procedures when necessary.

Sports medicine doctors in Columbia cater to a diverse patient population, from professional athletes and college sports teams to weekend warriors and active seniors.

Choosing a Sports Medicine Doctor in Columbia

Factors to consider when selecting a physician

Board certifications and specializations

• Review the American Board of Family Medicine and American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery certifications
• Consider doctors with multiple specializations (e.g., Sports Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery)

Experience and education

• Evaluate educational background, including medical school and residency
• Look for fellowships or additional training in Sports Medicine

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews on platforms like Healthgrades
• Pay attention to doctors with consistently high ratings (e.g., 4.5 stars and above)

Hospital affiliations

• Consider doctors affiliated with reputable local hospitals
• Note that some top-rated doctors may have private practices

Resources for finding sports medicine doctors

Online directories and rating websites

• Utilize Healthgrades.com for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Cross-reference information with other reputable medical websites

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Consult with your regular doctor for personalized recommendations
• Discuss your specific sports medicine needs and preferences

Local sports organizations and teams

• Reach out to Columbia's sports clubs or university athletic departments
• Inquire about sports medicine doctors they work with or recommend

Top-Rated Sports Medicine Doctors in Columbia

Dr. Christopher Farmer

Background and Credentials

• Education: University of Missouri School of Medicine (2000)
• Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine
• Specialties: Sports Medicine, Family Medicine

Patient Satisfaction

• Star Rating: 5.0 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 170
• Languages: English and Spanish

Contact Information

• Phone: (573) 443-2402

Dr. Tameem Yehyawi

Expertise

• Specializations: Sports Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Hip & Knee Orthopedics
• Board Certification: American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Education

• Medical School: R J & Lucille Carver College of Medicine University of Ia (2009)

Patient Feedback

• Star Rating: 5.0 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 90

Contact Information

• Phone: (573) 443-2402

Dr. Patrick Smith

Professional Background

• Specialties: Sports Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Sports Medicine
• Education: University of Michigan / Ann Arbor (1980)
• Board Certification: American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Patient Satisfaction

• Star Rating: 5.0 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 62

Contact Information

• Phone: (573) 876-8653

Dr. Clayton Nuelle

Specialization and Training

• Focus: Orthopedic Sports Medicine, Sports Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery
• Fellowship: Sports Medicine, University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics
• Board Certification: American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Education

• Medical School: Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine (2009)
• Residency and Fellowship: University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics

Patient Reviews

• Star Rating: 4.9 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 74

Contact Information

• Phone: (573) 882-2663

Dr. Matt Thornburg

Areas of Expertise

• Specialties: Sports Medicine, Family Medicine
• Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine

Educational Background

• Medical School and Residency: University of Missouri School of Medicine (1999)

Patient Satisfaction

• Star Rating: 4.9 out of 5
• Number of Reviews: 127
• Languages: English and Spanish

Contact Information

• Phone: (573) 876-8653

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Sports Medicine Doctor in Columbia

Personal Comfort and Communication

Initial Consultation

• Schedule a meeting to assess rapport with the doctor
• Observe the doctor's communication style and willingness to answer questions

Treatment Approach Discussion

• Inquire about various treatment options
• Discuss the doctor's philosophy on conservative vs. surgical approaches

Insurance and Financial Considerations

Insurance Coverage

• Verify if the doctor is in-network with your insurance provider
• Understand potential out-of-pocket costs

Payment Options

• Inquire about available payment plans
• Discuss potential costs for common procedures or treatments

Location and Accessibility

Proximity Considerations

• Evaluate the distance from your home or workplace
• Consider parking and public transportation options

Availability and Scheduling

• Check office hours and appointment availability
• Inquire about wait times for new patients