CORE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TEAM PHYSICIAN

To perform his or her duties effectively, a team physician
needs an understanding of the medical conditions
common to the athlete. This knowledge should encompass
many areas of medicine, including but not limited
to—orthopedics, cardiopulmonary medicine, neurology,
dermatology, and sound principles of rehabilitation
(Herring et al, 2000b).


The team physician also needs expertise in pharmacology.
Practical pharmacology for the team physician
includes not only knowing how to treat illnesses, but
also an understanding of performance enhancing drugs
and herbal medicines. Team physicians must be familiar
with the substances that are banned by the governing
athletic association so that an athlete does not inadvertently
lose eligibility to compete (Melion et al, 1997).


A team physician must have a general knowledge of
behavioral medicine and psychology. Mood disturbances
and mental illnesses (like depression) affect
athletes and can be very common in injured athletes.



A team physician’s knowledge of exercise science and
nutrition can help prevent injuries, as well as maximize
an athlete’s performance. Disordered eating and overtraining
can prove devastating if not recognized early
and treated effectively (Herring et al, 2000b).