What to expect
A sports physician's assessment differs from personal training or a general fitness class.
A good place to start
Ask whether the clinician covers the concern and activity involved. Explain your current activity and goals, and check how advice will be shared with any treating physiotherapist or other clinician.
What to compare
- Medical specialty
- Activity-specific experience
- Coordinated plan
Prepare your questions
Write down why you are seeking care and what you want to understand. Check the practitioner’s professional registration and whether a referral is needed. These guides explain services; they cannot assess symptoms or choose treatment. Do not delay urgent care to compare listings.
Understand the other options
Re-integration doctor
Occupational medicine considers health in relation to work, including fitness for duties and support for return to work.
Doctor of society and health
Public-health, municipal and school physicians work with populations or defined community services.