Footnotes Summer 2024 - 31

podiatry plays in sports medicine. From treating minor
issues like ingrown toenails to managing major injuries,
podiatrists are essential. Collaboration between podiatrists,
orthopedists, and primary care sports medicine doctors is
vital. A multidisciplinary approach ensures the best outcomes
for athletes. Additionally, I would like the public to know
that podiatrists play a significant role in injury prevention,
orthotic design, and rehabilitation. We manage a wide range
of conditions that can impact athletes' performance and
overall health from adolescence to adulthood. Educating the
public on our contributions can help ensure athletes get the
comprehensive care they need.
Q. How do you see the field of sports medicine and
podiatry evolving in the next 5 to 10 years?
I see it growing and gaining more recognition. Podiatrists
are increasingly involved in sports teams at all levels, from
youth to professional sports. Back in the day, our profession
had been undervalued, but now people can see the value
through our results and outcomes. The greatest thing is
your relationship with your team- the player will trust you
more than anything else and will always reach out to you.
Advances in technology and treatment methods will continue
to enhance our capabilities, and our role in multidisciplinary
teams will strengthen.
Q. Are there any recent innovations in the treatment
of sports medicine injuries that you find particularly
promising?
I've been using a lot of shockwave treatments, ultrasound,
and laser treatments. Orthotics also provide a huge benefit
to players. Additionally, amniotic stem cell injectables are
becoming a significant innovation. PRP and amniotic
treatments can benefit rehab and help players return to play
even sooner. However, the most important aspect is preevaluations.
Proper health screening, history, and physicals
are crucial. Understanding the basics and evaluating the
player's function from the beginning is essential to prevent
re-injury and to create an effective treatment plan using
these technologies.
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Q. Is there any area where you feel research is
lacking in sports medicine?
There's a lot of research in biomechanics, but sports
podiatry research is still lacking. It's an area that needs more
focus to improve treatment and prevention strategies in
sports medicine.
Q. Do you have any advice for podiatry students
wanting to pursue sports medicine?
Reach out to people in the field. There aren't many of us,
so don't be shy. Send emails, ask to shadow, whether in
clinics or at games. I've taken students to shadow, and so
have other sports medicine specialty podiatrists. Participate
in the American Academy of Sports Medicine. Being
a member allows you to attend conferences and talks.
Students can also engage in research, present posters,
and give presentations. Starting in high school can also
be beneficial-helping with screenings and evaluations
during the summer can provide valuable experience and
knowledge. Remember, anything is possible.
Footnotes Summer 2024

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