Robert Armstrong D.O.: Olympics Underscores Vital Role of Sports Medicine
Online, August 8, 2012 (Newswire.com) - As spectators across the world watch athletes strive to make their mark at the 2012 Summer Olympics, the behind-the-scenes medical professionals are making sure that athletes get everything they need in terms of staying healthy during the games. A recent article from MedPage Today showcases the team of 80 medical practitioners on the U.S. Olympic Committee that are collaborating to treat any injury or illness that can occur among the 525 U.S. athletes. Dr. Robert Armstrong D.O., expert in sports medicine, explains that this rare opportunity has allowed for a unique medical partnership.
According to the article, the medical team consists of professionals whose skills take on a wide range of specialties. Chiropractors, massage therapists, and those specializing in allopathic and osteopathic fields are working side by side to tackle a wide range of issues that can arise during the Olympic Games. Like the athletes, this medical team has trained heavily to reach this point. While some physicians have a rich history with assisting during the Olympics, others are joining the medical team for the first time after intensive preparation.
The article explains this process: "[Training] usually starts with a sports medicine physician who has worked with a given sport taking an internship at one of the Olympic training centers in the U.S., then moving on to domestic competitions, followed by other international competitions, before being selected for the Olympic Games." As a professional who understands the variety of complex medical issues that can arise during intense physical duress, Dr. Robert Armstrong D.O.
admires the hard work of these doctors that often goes unrecognized. He comments, "It is the best of all worlds for our athletes to have multiple types of healthcare practitioners available to them, as each type can offer something a little different, yet complementary to other practitioners."
Orthopedic surgeon, Damion Valletta D.O. has worked with the U.S. women's soccer team since 2008, and explains in the article that while it is rare to have so many specialists working closely together, it is necessary as many athletes require a different variety of treatments. He states, "From ice baths to massage therapy to chiropractic work or just doing a recovery workout session, the different specialists here navigate the athletes through what best prepares them for match day." Although this kind of collaboration is something that only happens every so often, Dr. Robert Armstrong believes that the athletic world could benefit from wider use of this comprehensive approach. He concludes, "We should strive to work out similar situations elsewhere when possible."
ABOUT:
Dr. Robert Armstrong D.O. is a healthcare provider who specializes in adult reconstructive surgery and sports medicine. As a member of the West Penn Orthopaedics practice, Dr. Robert Armstrong provides focused care that allows his patients to heal from injuries and health conditions. Through his care, Dr. Robert Armstrong helps his patients return to active lifestyles.
To learn more about his services or to schedule an appointment, visit www.drarmstrong.com.