Team Physician Services

Team physician services are the backbone of elite athletic care, providing direct medical oversight for student-athletes and professional teams. Lubbock Sports Medicine serves as the head orthopedic team physician for Texas Tech University Athletics, a role held since 2005. This long-standing partnership ensures that Red Raider athletes receive consistent, high-level medical attention across all varsity sports. The clinic also provides coverage for Frenship and Lubbock Cooper high schools, extending its reach to the secondary level.

Direct Athlete Coverage

Dr. Kevin Crawford, the Medical Director, oversees sports medicine care for the university's student-athletes. He is supported by a dedicated team of physician assistants and nurse practitioners who assist with daily evaluations and post-injury management. This structure allows for rapid response to acute injuries sustained during practice or competition. The team maintains open lines of communication with athletic trainers to ensure seamless care transitions.

Outreach and Community Programs

The clinic's Outreach Athletic Training program brings professional medical staff to area high schools and programs. This initiative enables athletic programs without full-time trainers to access the medical expertise needed to keep athletes in the game. The network of athletic trainers extends across the South Plains, supporting schools from All Saints Episcopal to Trinity Christian. This broad reach ensures that elite talent in the region has access to consistent medical standards.

Elite Athlete Treatment

Elite athlete treatment focuses on the specific demands of high-performance sports, requiring a nuanced approach to injury prevention and recovery. Lubbock Sports Medicine treats active people from all walks of life, including recreational and elite-level athletes. The physicians take the time to listen to patient needs and present treatment options that help individuals live the quality of life they desire. This patient-centric approach is critical for athletes whose livelihoods depend on their physical capabilities.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

The clinic offers advanced surgical options for complex injuries, including minimally invasive and arthroscopic procedures. Dr. Joel Campbell specializes in arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery of the shoulder, knee, and elbow. He received advanced training at the Steadman Hawkins Clinic, a world-renowned center for sports medicine. This expertise allows the clinic to address intricate issues such as cartilage restoration and ligament reconstruction with precision.

Non-Operative Management

Whenever possible, the team emphasizes non-operative management of musculoskeletal problems. Stan Kotara, PA-C, brings over two decades of experience in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery. He focuses on utilizing the latest techniques and treatment approaches to augment healing without surgery. This conservative approach often results in faster return-to-play times and reduced long-term risks for elite athletes.

Lubbock TX Facilities

The physical infrastructure of a sports medicine clinic is a critical factor in the quality of care provided. Lubbock Sports Medicine operates from a dedicated facility at 4110 22nd Place in Lubbock, TX. The office is equipped with on-site X-ray capabilities, allowing physicians to properly assess conditions during the initial visit. This immediate access to diagnostic imaging streamlines the treatment process and reduces the need for external referrals.

Rehabilitation Center

Adjacent to the medical practice is Lubbock Sports Rehab, the official physical therapy clinic of the group. Located at 5044 Frankford Ave, this facility is designed to restore function after surgery or athletic injury. The staff at Lubbock Sports Rehab combined have over 80 years of experience in physical therapy and athletic training. They maintain open lines of communication with the physicians to ensure the most appropriate rehab protocols are followed.

Convenience and Access

The clinic offers flexible hours to accommodate the busy schedules of athletes and working adults. Lubbock Sports Medicine is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00am to 5:00pm and on Fridays from 8:00am to 12:00pm. For urgent issues, the clinic provides after-hours emergency instructions to help patients avoid unnecessary emergency room visits. This commitment to accessibility ensures that care is available when it is needed most.

Orthopedic Injury Treatment

Orthopedic injury treatment at Lubbock Sports Medicine covers a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions, from acute trauma to chronic degenerative issues. The clinic's physicians are board-certified and members of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine. This professional affiliation ensures that treatment protocols align with the highest national standards of care. Patients can expect evidence-based interventions tailored to their specific injury profile.

Joint Reconstruction and Replacement

For patients suffering from arthritis or joint destruction, the clinic offers comprehensive reconstruction services. Dr. David Shephard is an orthopaedic surgeon committed to the reconstruction of arthritic joints. He completed a fellowship in adult joint reconstruction at Johns Hopkins Hospital, gaining experience in minimally invasive and partial joint replacement techniques. Dr. Jordan Simpson also specializes in adult reconstructive procedures, utilizing robotics and digital templating for complex cases. These advanced technologies enhance recovery times and improve surgical outcomes.

Acute Injury Management

The clinic is equipped to handle acute injuries sustained during athletic participation. The Saturday Injury Clinic provides immediate care for student-athletes during the high school football season. Physicians provide their services at no charge for the office visit, with charges only for necessary supplies or X-rays. This service is designed to evaluate injuries sustained on Thursday and Friday nights, ensuring that athletes receive prompt attention and return-to-play mapping.

Physical Therapy Services

Physical therapy services are an integral component of the recovery process at Lubbock Sports Medicine. The clinic's affiliated rehab center, Lubbock Sports Rehab, provides personalized therapy for a diverse patient population. From professional athletes to weekend warriors, the staff brings a holistic approach to the field of physical therapy. The goal is to get patients back to their life's motion by tailoring therapy to their specific needs.

Specialized Training and Equipment

Lubbock Sports Rehab is highly specialized in the field of sports medicine, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment to guide recovery. The staff is familiar with the doctor's rehab protocols, ensuring that therapy aligns with the surgical or medical plan. This coordination between the medical and rehab teams is crucial for optimal outcomes. Patients benefit from a seamless transition from the operating room or clinic to the therapy gym.

Performance Enhancement

Beyond basic rehabilitation, the clinic offers performance enhancement programs. The Nike Golf 360 program is a scientific process of analysis and training designed to enhance the athleticism and performance of golfers at all skill levels. This program reflects the clinic's commitment to not just healing, but optimizing the athlete's potential. By focusing on performance, the clinic helps athletes return to their sport at a higher level than before their injury.

Concussion Testing

Concussion testing is a critical aspect of sports medicine, particularly for athletes involved in contact sports. Lubbock Sports Medicine is the leading source for the treatment of sports-related head injuries on the South Plains. The clinic provides certified ImPACT Concussion Testing and Management. ImPACT stands for Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing, and it is the premier concussion management program in the country.

ImPACT Certification

Stan Kotara, PA-C, is one of the only Credentialed ImPACT Consultants for sports-related concussion in the South Plains area. He has been working with the ImPACT program with great success, providing neurocognitive assessment tools that are integral in return-to-play decisions. This computerized evaluation system helps health care professionals track the recovery of cognitive processes following a concussion. It also aids in communicating post-concussion status to athletes, coaches, and parents.

Comprehensive Head Injury Care

The clinic's approach to head injuries extends beyond testing to include comprehensive management and education. The team provides patient education on helmet safety and return-to-play protocols. This holistic care ensures that athletes understand the risks and recovery timelines associated with concussions. By integrating cognitive testing with physical therapy and medical oversight, Lubbock Sports Medicine provides a complete safety net for head injury management.

Key Takeaways

• Lubbock Sports Medicine serves as the head orthopedic team physician for Texas Tech University Athletics, providing elite-level care for student-athletes.
• The clinic offers advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted joint reconstruction, for complex orthopedic injuries.
• On-site X-ray capabilities and a dedicated physical therapy facility, Lubbock Sports Rehab, streamline the diagnostic and recovery process.
• Physicians at the clinic are board-certified and members of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, ensuring adherence to national standards.
• The clinic provides certified ImPACT Concussion Testing, a nationally recognized program for managing sports-related head injuries.
• Outreach Athletic Training programs extend professional medical support to area high schools, ensuring consistent care for young athletes.
• The Saturday Injury Clinic offers free physician services for student-athletes with acute injuries during the football season.
• Performance enhancement programs, such as Nike Golf 360, focus on optimizing athlete potential beyond basic rehabilitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the team physician for Texas Tech University Athletics?

Dr. Kevin Crawford is the Medical Director and Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics. He has held this role since 2005, overseeing sports medicine care for Red Raider student-athletes across all varsity sports.

Does Lubbock Sports Medicine treat high school athletes?

Yes, the clinic provides team physician coverage for Frenship and Lubbock Cooper high schools. Additionally, the Outreach Athletic Training program brings professional medical staff to various area high schools and programs across the South Plains.

What is ImPACT testing?

ImPACT stands for Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing. It is a computerized evaluation system that provides neurocognitive assessment tools to help health care professionals track recovery and make return-to-play decisions.

Where is the physical therapy clinic located?

Lubbock Sports Rehab, the official physical therapy clinic of Lubbock Sports Medicine, is located at 5044 Frankford Ave in Lubbock, TX. It is a separate facility from the main medical office but works closely with the physicians.

Do you offer robotic-assisted surgery?

Yes, Dr. Jordan Simpson utilizes new technologies, including robotics and digital templating, for the most complex adult reconstructive cases. This technology helps provide optimal outcomes and enhance recovery times.

Is there a Saturday clinic for injuries?

Yes, during the high school football season, Lubbock Sports Medicine hosts Saturday Morning Injury Clinics. Physicians provide services at no charge for the office visit, evaluating acute injuries sustained during Thursday and Friday night contests.

What types of joint replacements do you perform?

The clinic performs a variety of joint replacements, including total hip and knee replacements, partial knee replacements, and hip resurfacing. Dr. David Shephard and Dr. Jordan Simpson specialize in these adult reconstructive procedures.

How can I schedule an appointment?

You can schedule an appointment by contacting the clinic at (806) 792-4329. The office is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00am to 5:00pm and on Fridays from 8:00am to 12:00pm.

Conclusion

For elite-level athletes in Lubbock, TX, Lubbock Sports Medicine provides a comprehensive ecosystem of care that addresses every aspect of athletic health. From the initial diagnosis by board-certified surgeons to the final stages of rehabilitation in a specialized gym, the clinic ensures that patients are supported at every step. The integration of advanced surgical technology, certified concussion testing, and dedicated team physician services sets a high standard for sports medicine in the region. Athletes seeking to maximize their performance and minimize injury risk will find a trusted partner in Lubbock Sports Medicine. To begin your journey toward optimal health, to schedule an appointment today.