Sports Medicine Physicians
Sports medicine physicians diagnose and treat injuries related to athletic activity and physical exercise. They work in hospitals, clinics, sports facilities, and with athletic teams at various levels. These physicians also develop injury prevention strategies and help athletes return to safe participation in their sports.
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A day in the work
A sports medicine physician might evaluate an athlete with a knee injury during a clinic visit, order imaging tests, and develop a rehabilitation plan. Later in the week, they could be on the sidelines at a game providing emergency care for acute injuries, then spend time reviewing diagnostic results and consulting with physical therapists about patient progress. Documentation and follow-up appointments with returning athletes fill remaining hours.
Who this work suits
Holland code ISR. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
If you enjoy investigating medical problems and working directly with people, this career suits you. You'll need strong analytical skills to diagnose complex injuries and interpersonal skills to guide athletes through treatment and recovery decisions.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $287,540 | $454,550 | $564,000 | 740 |
| Montana | $326,580 | $438,850 | $438,850 | 580 |
| Maine | $312,930 | $419,410 | $442,790 | 1,340 |
| Wisconsin | $280,990 | $391,740 | $448,470 | 6,350 |
| Minnesota | $214,230 | $367,320 | $392,360 | 5,350 |
| Indiana | $213,350 | $366,190 | $428,230 | 6,760 |
| New Hampshire | $236,820 | $361,300 | $362,850 | 1,000 |
| Alaska | $239,720 | $355,100 | $426,050 | 270 |
| Louisiana | $209,810 | $350,920 | $419,840 | 4,740 |
| Oregon | $273,940 | $347,180 | $381,480 | 4,130 |
| Vermont | $247,520 | $343,050 | $400,490 | 440 |
| Wyoming | $256,180 | $342,800 | $377,870 | 440 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certification in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation: Sports Medicine — American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
- Internal Medicine / Emergency Medicine / Critical Care Medicine (IM/EM/CCM) — American Board of Internal Medicine
- Diplomate American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (DACBSP) — American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians
- Certification in Sports Medicine — American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians
- Certification in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation: Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) — American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
- Certificate of Added Qualifications in Family Practice: Sports Medicine — American Board of Family Medicine
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against sports medicine physicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1229.06 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.