FAQ
What is Sports Medicine?
American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine defines sports medicine as a branch of the healing arts that utilizes a holistic, comprehensive approach to the prevention, diagnosis and management of sport and exercise-related injuries, disorders, dysfunctions and disease processes.
What is Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery (also called arthroscopy) is a minimally invasive surgical technique performed using multiple small incisions and fiber optic cameras. Surgery performed arthroscopically induces far less trauma to the connective tissue around the treated area, increasing surgical success rates and significantly reducing recovery times. During an arthroscopic procedure, the surgeon will typically make two small incisions—one for the camera and one for the surgical instruments. A small amount of fluid in injected to provide a space for the surgery. He will then view the instruments on a monitor while he conducts the repair. Because of the small incision sizes, such procedures produce minimal scarring. The arthroscopic camera can also be used independently to directly observe and assess an injury prior to making a judgment as to whether surgery is necessary.
What is an Osteopathic Doctor (D.O.)?
Osteopathic doctors, or osteopathic physicians, in the United States receive the same vigorous training as medical doctors (MDs), and also receive training in osteopathic manipulative medicine, a specialized form of manual therapy. Osteopathic doctors specialize in injuries and disorders of the musculo-skeletal system. Osteopathic physicians perform surgeries and conduct physical therapy treatments. Dr. Dougherty has also completed a one-year sports medicine fellowship (allopathic M.D. program).
Will I be able to play my sport again?
We aim to restore the fullest possible range of mobility to all our patients. Your ability to play your chosen sport at the same level after a procedure depends on many factors, including the severity of the injury, the timeliness with which the injury is treated, and your adherence to post-operative instructions and recommendations.