Best Sports Medicine Doctors in Springfield

Introduction to Sports Medicine in Springfield

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 Springfield, Missouri, this medical specialty plays a significant role in maintaining the health and performance of athletes and active individuals.

Sports medicine physicians in Springfield are trained to address a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to sprains, strains, fractures, and overuse injuries. They also provide guidance on injury prevention, performance enhancement, and proper nutrition for athletes.

Importance of sports medicine for athletes and active individuals

For athletes and active individuals in Springfield, sports medicine is essential for maintaining optimal health and performance. These specialists are equipped to provide both preventive care and treatment for sports-related injuries, helping patients return to their activities safely and efficiently.

Sports medicine doctors in Springfield often work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists and athletic trainers, to develop comprehensive treatment plans. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive well-rounded care tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Overview of sports medicine landscape in Springfield

Springfield boasts a diverse array of sports medicine specialists, ranging from board-certified physicians to athletic trainers and physical therapists. According to the provided data, there are at least 19 professionals in the area specializing in sports medicine, offering patients a wide selection of qualified providers.

The city is home to various facilities that cater to sports medicine needs, including specialized clinics, hospital-affiliated practices, and rehabilitation centers. Many of these facilities, such as Cox Medical Center South and Mercy Hospital Springfield, are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and resources to provide comprehensive care for athletes and active individuals.

Choosing a Sports Medicine Doctor in Springfield

Factors to consider when selecting a sports medicine specialist

Qualifications and board certifications

• Review educational background and certifications
• Look for American Board of Family Medicine certification in sports medicine

Experience and areas of expertise

• Consider years of practice and specialization in sports medicine
• Evaluate fellowship training and ongoing education

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Read patient testimonials for insights into doctor-patient relationships

Hospital affiliations and available facilities

• Check associations with reputable hospitals like Cox Medical Center South
• Consider proximity and accessibility of affiliated medical facilities

Resources for finding sports medicine doctors in Springfield

Online directories and review platforms

• Utilize Healthgrades and similar websites for comprehensive doctor information
• Compare doctors based on provided data and patient feedback

Referrals from primary care physicians or other healthcare providers

• Consult with your regular doctor for personalized recommendations
• Seek advice from other specialists you may be seeing

Recommendations from local sports organizations or teams

• Reach out to local athletic clubs or school sports departments
• Connect with community sports leagues for doctor suggestions

Top-Ranked Sports Medicine Doctors in Springfield

Dr. Eric Gifford

Background and Qualifications

• MD from Medical University of the Americas
• Fellowship at Campbell Clinic Primary Care Sports Medicine
• Board certified by American Board of Family Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.3-star rating based on 120 reviews
• Highest number of patient reviews among listed doctors

Areas of Expertise and Services

• Specializes in Sports Medicine
• Affiliated with Cox Medical Center South and Cox Medical Center Branson

Dr. Boyd Crockett

Background and Qualifications

• MD from University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Medicine
• Board certified by American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
• Expertise in both Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 3.4-star rating based on 30 reviews

Areas of Expertise and Services

• Dual specialization in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine
• Affiliated with multiple hospitals including Cox Medical Center South

Dr. Shannon Woods

Background and Qualifications

• MD from University of Missouri School of Medicine
• Fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC)
• Board certified by American Board of Family Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 3.5-star rating based on 20 reviews

Areas of Expertise and Services

• Specializes in Sports Medicine
• Affiliated with Cox Medical Center South and Cox Medical Center Branson
• Bilingual in English and Spanish

Dr. Amanda Babcock

Background and Qualifications

• MD from Wayne State University School of Medicine
• Fellowship at University of California San Diego Medical Center
• Board certified by American Board of Family Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0-star rating based on 1 review

Areas of Expertise and Services

• Specializes in Sports Medicine
• Affiliated with Cox Medical Center South
• Bilingual in English and Spanish

Dr. Trevor Conner

Background and Qualifications

• DO from Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Board certified by American Board of Family Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0-star rating based on 1 review

Areas of Expertise and Services

• Specializes in Sports Medicine
• Affiliated with Cox Medical Center South and Cox Medical Center Branson

Additional Resources for Sports Medicine Care in Springfield

Other notable sports medicine professionals

Athletic trainers

• Whitney Bixler, ATC
• Tyler Landgraf, ATC
• Zachary Roberts, ATC

Physical therapists

• Dr. Marla Munsen, DPT
• Brett Koehn, PT

Specialized sports medicine facilities and clinics

Hospital-affiliated centers

• Cox Medical Center South
• Mercy Hospital Springfield

Tips for maximizing your sports medicine care

Preparing for your appointment

• Gather relevant medical history
• List current symptoms and concerns
• Bring imaging results if available

Following through with treatment plans

• Adhere to prescribed exercises and therapies
• Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled
• Communicate progress and concerns with your doctor