About Sports Medicine
Sport and Exercise Medicine is a medical specialty focused on musculoskeletal health, injuries, exercise, conditioning, and helping people return to activity safely. It is not only for elite athletes. It is also valuable for active adults, people recovering from injury, and older adults wanting to stay mobile, strong, and independent.
What sport and exercise physicians do
- Diagnose and manage musculoskeletal injuries
- Guide rehabilitation and return to activity
- Advise on exercise, strength, and conditioning
- Help with load management and training setbacks
- Support healthy ageing and safe physical activity
Who it helps
- Competitive and recreational athletes
- People with ongoing musculoskeletal pain
- Anyone returning to movement after injury or illness
- Older adults wanting to keep active and independent
- People needing exercise guidance for long-term health
When to see a sport and exercise physician
Sport and exercise physician input can be especially useful when symptoms are not settling as expected, the diagnosis is unclear, rehabilitation is stalling, or you need broader guidance on exercise, loading, or return to activity.
I have already seen a physio. When should I see a sport and exercise physician?
Specialist medical input can be helpful when symptoms are not progressing as expected, there are questions around diagnosis or imaging, or exercise and loading need a broader medical overview.
Is sports medicine only for athletes?
No. Sports medicine is for anyone with musculoskeletal pain or exercise-related concerns, including recreational exercisers, people returning to activity, and older adults wanting help to stay active, mobile, and strong.
Can sports medicine help with exercise and strength, not just injuries?
Yes. Sport and exercise physicians are well placed to advise on exercise prescription, conditioning, strength progression, training load, and safe return to activity after injury, illness, or periods of inactivity.
Can ACC be used?
Yes. Dr Scheffer is an ACC contracted clinical provider, and care can also be accessed privately or with insurance where appropriate.