|
|
The Runner's Sports Physician
What criteria should you have when considering a sports physician? Dr. Stephen M. Pribut, one of the best in the business, gives these guidelines for the serious runner:
|
Word of mouth. Choose a doctor who has had experience in treating
athletes. Forget the telephone book and talk to other runners. Consult
your area running clubs, or even a quality running shoe stores for advice.
|
|
Experience with runners. Dr. Pribut recommends choosing a physician
who has experience treating runners, but says it's not necessary the
doctor be a runner: "This makes as much sense as seeking an oncologist to
evaluate and treat your cancer based on his own personal history of
cancer," he says. "While the doctor being an athlete may add to his
understanding of both the psyche and the physical conditions that lead to
injury, it is not a prerequisite to being capable of appropriately
treating your problem."
|
|
Recommendations over certifications. Dr. Pribut discounts the
importance of board certification, saying "there are no organizations that
currently render a board certified status to any physician or podiatric
physician." The American College of Sports Medicine and the American
Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, however, do test and grant
fellowships to physicians, but Dr. Pribut says nothing beats runners'
recommendations based on personal experience.
|
If you are new to an area and don't know any other
runners for recommendations, contact the American Running Association, the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, or the American College of Sports Medicine for a recommendation.
|