Getting injured is never pleasant or convenient, but how you handle your athlete’s care can mean the difference between a speedy recovery and a long and painful process.

To get started, see a doctor that you trust. Get a referral from a fellow parent or ask the school’s athletic trainer to recommend someone. Pediatricians and many orthopedic MDs are not trained in sports medicine; they just aren’t familiar with the needs of an athlete.

Once a diagnosis has been made, keep these tips in mind:

• Go with your gut: if you aren’t confident with the docs report, seek a second opinion.
• Don’t rush to surgery – ask if physical therapy is an option.
• Discuss with your athlete’s athletic trainer, they can help break down the details for you.