Best Sports Medicine Doctors in Norfolk

Introduction to Sports Medicine in Norfolk

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 Norfolk, a city known for its active lifestyle and thriving sports community, Sports Medicine plays a significant role in maintaining the health and performance of athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Sports Medicine specialists in Norfolk treat a wide range of conditions, including sprains, strains, fractures, and overuse injuries. They also address issues such as concussions, heat-related illnesses, and sports-specific injuries. These practitioners work with patients of all ages and activity levels, from professional athletes to weekend warriors.

Importance of Sports Medicine in an active community

The importance of Sports Medicine in an active community like Norfolk cannot be overstated. For athletes and active individuals, having access to specialized care means faster recovery times, reduced risk of re-injury, and improved overall performance. Sports Medicine physicians provide personalized treatment plans that take into account the specific demands of a patient's sport or activity.

Beyond treatment, Sports Medicine plays a key role in injury prevention and performance enhancement. Practitioners in Norfolk offer services such as biomechanical assessments, nutrition counseling, and tailored exercise programs to help individuals optimize their physical capabilities and avoid injuries. This proactive approach contributes to the long-term health and well-being of the community's active population.

Choosing a Sports Medicine Doctor in Norfolk

Factors to consider when selecting a physician

Credentials and certifications

• Review board certifications (e.g., American Board of Family Medicine, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery)
• Check for specialized training in Sports Medicine

Experience and specializations

• Years of practice in Sports Medicine
• Additional specialties (e.g., Family Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery)

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Read patient feedback for insights on doctor-patient interactions

Overview of the selection process

Researching available doctors

• Utilize online resources like Healthgrades
• Compare credentials and patient feedback of Norfolk-based Sports Medicine specialists

Checking insurance coverage and affiliations

• Verify if the doctor is in-network with your insurance provider
• Review hospital affiliations (e.g., Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters)

Scheduling consultations

• Contact doctors' offices using provided phone numbers
• Prepare questions about their approach to Sports Medicine

Top-Ranked Sports Medicine Doctors in Norfolk

Dr. Jason McHugh

Credentials and Specializations

• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
• American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians certified
• Specializes in Sports Medicine and Family Medicine

Education and Training

• Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Residency: Genesys Regional Medical Center
• Fellowship: Sparrow Hospital

Patient Satisfaction

• 4.6-star rating based on 16 patient reviews
• High patient satisfaction score indicates quality care

Practice Information

• Phone: (757) 673-5680
• Hospital Affiliation: Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center
• Languages: English

Dr. Erica Willis

Credentials and Specializations

• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
• American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics certified
• Specializes in Sports Medicine and Pediatrics

Education and Training

• Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Patient Satisfaction

• Perfect 5.0-star rating based on 3 patient reviews
• Highest patient satisfaction score among listed doctors

Practice Information

• Phone: (757) 640-0022
• Hospital Affiliation: Children's Hospital Of The King's Daughters
• Languages: English

Dr. Michael Caines

Credentials and Specializations

• Medical Doctor (MD)
• American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery certified
• Specializes in Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine

Education and Training

• Undergraduate: Oberlin College
• Fellowship: Brigham and Women's Hospital
• Residency: St. Luke's Medical Center

Patient Satisfaction

• 3.8-star rating based on 20 patient reviews
• Solid patient satisfaction score with a larger sample size

Practice Information

• Phone: (757) 673-5680
• Hospital Affiliation: Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center
• Languages: English

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Sports Medicine Doctor in Norfolk

Online Physician Directories and Review Platforms

Utilizing Healthgrades

• Accessing detailed doctor profiles
• Interpreting star ratings and review counts

Other Reputable Websites

• Exploring additional online resources
• Cross-referencing information across platforms

Professional Associations and Referrals

American Medical Society for Sports Medicine

• Using the AMSSM physician finder
• Benefits of choosing AMSSM members

Local Medical Community

• Seeking referrals from primary care physicians
• Consulting with other specialists for recommendations

Insurance Provider Networks

Identifying In-Network Providers

• Contacting insurance companies for lists of covered doctors
• Using online insurance portals to search for Sports Medicine specialists

Understanding Coverage

• Reviewing policy details for Sports Medicine services
• Inquiring about out-of-network options and costs