Have Questions About Sports Medicine in Boise? We Have Answers.
Patient Success Stories
When Should I See a Sports Medicine Specialist?
You should see a sports medicine specialist if you experience persistent joint pain, swelling, instability, decreased range of motion, or difficulty returning to activity after a sports injury. Early evaluation often prevents more serious complications.
Do All Sports Injuries Require Surgery?
No. Many sports injuries can be treated successfully with non-surgical options such as physical therapy, activity modification, bracing, or guided injections. Surgery is recommended only when conservative treatment does not resolve the condition.
What Is the Difference Between Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy?
Sports medicine focuses on diagnosing and managing musculoskeletal injuries and joint conditions related to physical activity. A sports medicine physician evaluates the injury, determines the diagnosis, and creates a treatment plan that may include rehabilitation, bracing, injections, or referral for surgical evaluation if needed.
Physical therapy focuses on restoring strength, mobility, balance, and function through guided exercises and hands-on treatment. Physical therapists work closely with sports medicine physicians to help patients recover safely and return to activity.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Sports Injury?
Recovery time depends on the type and severity of the injury. Minor sprains may heal within weeks, while ligament tears or surgical recovery may require several months of rehabilitation and a structured return-to-play progression.
Do You Treat Non-Athletes?
Yes. While we treat competitive athletes, most of our patients are active individuals experiencing joint pain, overuse injuries, or orthopedic conditions unrelated to organized sports.
What Should I Expect at My First Appointment?
During your first visit, your provider will review your medical history, evaluate your injury, and discuss treatment options. Diagnostic imaging may be recommended depending on your condition.
Do You Only Treat Boise State Athletes and Students?
No. Although we help care for the Boise State University teams, we see a wide range of patients. We treat athletes from regional high schools and colleges, as well as professional and Olympic athletes. However, most of our patients are individuals from Boise and the surrounding region who participate in recreational and fitness activities.
What Is the Difference Between Sports Medicine Physicians and Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgeons?
Both are highly trained in musculoskeletal medicine. Sports medicine physicians specialize in the non-surgical treatment of sports injuries and orthopedic conditions. Sports medicine orthopedic surgeons are additionally trained in surgical treatment when necessary.
Do Orthopedic Surgeons Only Perform Surgery?
Not at all. Depending on the injury, many conditions can be successfully treated with a rehabilitation program or physical therapy. Surgery is always considered a last resort. We are proud of our conservative treatment approach and low patient-to-surgery ratio.
How Soon Can I Get an Appointment for a Sports Injury?
We reserve time each day for urgent sports injuries. Most appointments are available within 24 to 48 hours. Our goal is to return individuals to their sport or activity as safely and efficiently as possible.
Do I Need a Referral to See a Sports Medicine Physician?
Depending on your insurance plan, a referral may be required. For specific questions about referrals, please contact our office or your insurance provider.
Do I Need a Referral for Physical Therapy in Boise?
No. However, some insurance companies will not cover physical therapy without a referral or prescription. Contact your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.
Am I Required to Complete Physical Therapy at ISMI?
No. We work with several physical therapy clinics throughout the Boise area and are happy to refer you to the clinic that is most convenient for you.
Where Is Parking Located at Your Boise Office?
There is a designated section for ISMI patients directly in front of our office, in the southeast corner of the Boise State University stadium. Please park only in marked ISMI parking spaces to avoid a citation.
Why Do You Collect Payment at the Time of Service?
Insurance companies require us to collect applicable payments at the time of service.
What Payment Methods Do You Accept?
We accept cash, personal checks, debit cards, and major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Discover.
Do You Offer Payment Plans?
Yes. We are happy to discuss payment plan options that work for both parties.
What Insurance Plans Do You Accept?
We accept most insurance plans. Because each plan is unique, we recommend contacting your insurance provider to verify coverage prior to your visit.
Do You Have a Wheelchair Available?
Yes. Please notify our office staff upon arrival, and we will assist you.
What Is Your Privacy Policy?
Our Notice of Privacy Practices can be found here: Notice of Privacy Practices
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You don't play sports to get fit, you get fit to play sports.