The Senior Athlete
General Considerations Demographics • It is widely accepted that the average life expectancy continues to increase; as it does, the proportion of older adults in the population also increases. •…
The Pediatric Athlete
General Principles • A pediatric athlete can be any child or adolescent usually under the age of 18 years who participates regularly in sports activities. • Understanding physical and physiologic…
Exercise Prescription and Physiology
Exercise Physiology • Exercise can be defined as “bodily exertion, especially for the sake of training, recreation, or fitness.” • Science of processes and mechanisms of skeletal muscle contraction and…
The Wilderness Athlete and Adventurer
Introduction • Wilderness sports differ from traditional sports in several ways. • Participation levels of athletes may vary: professional, sponsored, and paid athletes; athletic individuals and adventurers; and intermittent recreational…
The Female Athlete
History of Women in Sports • Throughout history, women have participated in sports at much lower rates than men. • The Modern Olympics was first held in 1896; in the…
Sports Pharmacology of Pain and Inflammation Control in Athletes
Overview The pharmacology of pain management in the athletic arena can be a critical component in returning an athlete to play. Several options exist, and choosing an appropriate intervention should…
Sports Nutrition
Role of Nutrition in Athletic Performance • Exercise training and genetic makeup are major determinants of athletic performance. • A healthy diet will not substitute for either factor, but making…
Care of Athletes at Different Levels: From Pee-Wee to Professional
General Considerations ( Box 15.1 ) Availability • Being a team physician requires a tremendous time commitment. • Must have a sincere desire to care for athletes and allow their…
Flexibility
General Principles • The term flexibility is often clinically used as a synonym for range of motion (ROM) around a joint. • Both muscles and ligaments can limit ROM. •…
Resistance Training
General Principles • Resistance training is the most potent form of exercise to strengthen tissues and help prevent injury and improve sports performance. Appropriately prescribed and implemented resistance training programs…
