Sports medicine focuses on helping people improve their athletic performance, recover from injury and prevent future injuries. It is a fast-growing health care field, because health workers who specialize in sports medicine help all kinds of people, not just athletes.

Sports medicine professionals treat amateur athletes, those who want better results from their exercise program, people who have suffered injuries and are trying to regain full function and those with disabilities who are trying to increase mobility and capability.

The career path you take will depend on your interests, your educational goals and the environment in which you want to work. Many careers in this field require advanced degrees, and certification can improve your chances of landing a great job.

If you’re interested in sports medicine, consider volunteering with the medical personnel who assist your school’s sports teams. You can observe the work they do and learn more about what a career in sports medicine entails.

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• Get answers to your questions about sports medicine careers and education.

The American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine has reviewed this overview.