Active adults in Lubbock, TX, rely on Lubbock Sports Medicine for comprehensive care of orthopedic and sports-related injuries. This facility serves as the premier destination for both surgical and non-surgical treatment, supported by a dedicated physical therapy clinic. This guide details the specific roles of the medical team, the scope of rehabilitation services, and the specialized surgical expertise available to help you return to your active lifestyle.
Sports Rehabilitation Services
Rehabilitation is the critical bridge between injury and full return to activity. Lubbock Sports Rehab operates as the official physical therapy clinic for the medical group, ensuring a seamless transition from diagnosis to recovery. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment designed to restore function after surgery or athletic trauma. Staff members maintain open lines of communication with the treating physicians to ensure that every rehab protocol aligns with the specific surgical or medical plan.
Personalized Recovery Plans
Rehabilitation is not a one-size-fits-all process. The team at Lubbock Sports Rehab tailors therapy to the specific needs of each patient, ranging from professional athletes to weekend warriors. This holistic approach focuses on three core pillars: rehabilitation, prevention, and performance. By addressing the root cause of the injury, the clinic aims to not only heal the current issue but also strengthen the body against future setbacks.
Specialized Performance Training
For those looking to enhance their athletic output, the clinic offers the Nike Golf 360 program. This scientific process of analysis and training is designed to improve the athleticism of golfers at all skill levels. The program operates on the principle that the test is the exercise, allowing for efficient and effective performance gains. This level of specialization demonstrates the facility's commitment to the unique demands of different sports.
Orthopedic Injury Treatment
Orthopedic injury treatment encompasses the diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. At Lubbock Sports Medicine, the focus is on providing the latest treatment options for a wide array of injuries. The practice serves active people from all walks of life, including recreational and elite-level athletes. Physicians take the time to listen to patient needs and present treatment options that support the desired quality of life.
Non-Operative Management
Many sports injuries can be successfully managed without surgery. The medical team emphasizes non-operative management of musculoskeletal problems whenever possible. This approach often involves a combination of physical therapy, activity modification, and advanced diagnostic imaging. By avoiding unnecessary surgery, patients can often return to their activities faster with fewer risks.
Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. The office is equipped with on-site X-ray capabilities to aid physicians in properly assessing conditions. For more complex cases, the team utilizes advanced diagnostic imaging to visualize soft tissue and joint structures. This comprehensive diagnostic approach ensures that the treatment plan is based on precise medical evidence. according to Sports Injuries Diagnosis
Sports Medicine Physicians
Sports medicine physicians are medical doctors who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of sports-related injuries. The physicians at Lubbock Sports Medicine are members of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine. Their expertise allows them to manage complex injuries while keeping the athlete's long-term health in mind.
Comprehensive Care Team
The medical team includes several board-certified physicians who bring diverse expertise to the practice. Dr. Kevin Crawford serves as the Medical Director and Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics. Dr. Stephen Flores is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in sports medicine. Dr. Joel Campbell specializes in arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery of the shoulder, knee, and elbow.
Advanced Practice Providers
Supporting the physicians is a team of experienced advanced practice providers. Stan Kotara, PA-C brings over two decades of experience in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery. Jordan Williams, PA-C combines his background in athletic training with physician assistant training to provide comprehensive care. These providers work closely with the doctors to ensure continuity of care across all aspects of patient management.
Physical Therapy Rehabilitation
Physical therapy rehabilitation is a specialized field focused on restoring movement and function after injury or surgery. The staff at Lubbock Sports Rehab combines over 80 years of experience in physical therapy and athletic training. This collective expertise allows the team to guide patients through each step of their recovery with confidence. The clinic's location at 5044 Frankford Ave in Lubbock provides convenient access for patients in the South Plains.
Therapist-Physician Collaboration
One of the distinct advantages of this facility is the direct collaboration between therapists and physicians. The therapists are familiar with the specific rehab protocols prescribed by the doctors. This open line of communication ensures that the patient receives the most appropriate rehab for their injury. It eliminates the guesswork often found in standalone therapy clinics and keeps the recovery process tightly aligned with medical goals.
Equipment and Environment
The facility is equipped with top-notch training resources designed to challenge patients at every stage of recovery. From basic range-of-motion exercises to high-intensity functional training, the environment is tailored to the needs of active adults. The goal is to get patients back to their life's motion by tailoring therapy to their specific athletic or lifestyle demands.
Orthopedic Specialists
Orthopedic specialists are surgeons who focus on specific areas of the musculoskeletal system. The team at Lubbock Sports Medicine includes specialists with distinct areas of interest, ensuring that patients receive targeted care. This specialization allows for deeper expertise in complex conditions that require nuanced surgical or medical management.
Joint Reconstruction Expertise
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. He is particularly focused on direct anterior hip replacement, a procedure that is relatively new to the Lubbock area.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Dr. Karl Pankratz has over 20 years of experience treating bone and joint problems. He has a special interest in robotic-assisted reconstruction of hips and knees. By combining timeless surgical principles with cutting-edge technology, Dr. Pankratz aims to give every patient the best opportunity for a positive outcome. This technological integration represents the forefront of modern orthopedic care.
Physical Therapy Providers
Physical therapy providers are licensed professionals who deliver hands-on care to restore mobility. The team at Lubbock Sports Rehab includes dedicated physical therapists and certified athletic trainers. These providers work together to create a comprehensive care environment. Their combined experience ensures that patients receive high-quality care regardless of their specific injury or sport.
Key Clinical Staff
The clinical team includes Tanner Richey, PT and Mark Caffey, PT, who lead the physical therapy efforts. Additionally, certified athletic trainers Jon Murray, ATC and Kerry Wimberly, ATC provide specialized support. This blend of PT and ATC expertise allows for a unique approach to sports injury care that addresses both medical and athletic performance needs.
Sports Medicine Specialists
Sports medicine specialists focus on the unique demands placed on the body by athletic activity. Lubbock Sports Medicine provides services to area schools, universities, and colleges across the South Plains. The imprint of the practice extends into Eastern New Mexico, serving a wide range of athletic programs. This outreach ensures that athletes have access to professional medical staff at the point of care.
Concussion Management
Head injuries are a critical concern in sports. The clinic provides certified ImPACT Concussion Testing and Management. ImPACT stands for Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing. It is a nationally recognized program that provides neurocognitive assessment tools. Stan Kotara, PA-C serves as a Credentialed ImPACT Consultant, helping to make return-to-play decisions based on scientific data. according to Sports Injuries Diagnosis
Athletic Training Outreach
The Outreach Athletic Training Program brings professional medical staff to high schools and programs that may not have full-time trainers. This network covers schools all around Lubbock and the South Plains. By providing on-site care, the program helps keep athletes off the training table and in the game. This proactive approach to injury prevention and management is a hallmark of the practice.
Orthopedic Surgeons
Orthopedic surgeons are physicians who perform surgical procedures on the musculoskeletal system. The surgeons at Lubbock Sports Medicine are board-certified and bring extensive training to their practice. They are prepared to handle a wide range of surgical needs, from minimally invasive arthroscopy to complex joint replacements. Their goal is to restore function and alleviate pain for active patients.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Modern orthopedic surgery often utilizes minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time. Dr. Kevin Crawford focuses on arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, knee, and elbow. He also uses biologics such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy to support healing. These advanced techniques allow for faster recovery and less post-operative pain.
Comparison of Surgical Specialties
| Physician | Primary Surgical Focus | Notable Training |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Kevin Crawford | Shoulder, Knee, Elbow Arthroscopy | Steadman Clinic Fellowship |
| Dr. David Shephard | Hip and Knee Reconstruction | Johns Hopkins Fellowship |
| Dr. Joel Campbell | Shoulder, Knee, Elbow Reconstruction | Steadman Hawkins Fellowship |
| Dr. Karl Pankratz | Robotic-Assisted Hip and Knee | Texas Tech Residency |
Key Takeaways
- Lubbock Sports Medicine is the premier center for orthopedic and sports injury care in the South Plains.
- The facility offers a seamless transition from medical diagnosis to physical therapy through its official rehab clinic.
- Physicians are board-certified and members of national orthopedic and sports medicine societies.
- Advanced practice providers, including PAs and NPs, work closely with physicians to ensure comprehensive care.
- The clinic utilizes advanced technologies such as robotic-assisted surgery and ImPACT concussion testing.
- Outreach programs provide athletic training services to high schools and universities across the region.
- Specialized programs like Nike Golf 360 cater to the performance needs of specific sports.
- The team combines over 80 years of collective experience in physical therapy and athletic training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the medical director of Lubbock Sports Medicine?
Dr. Kevin Crawford serves as the Medical Director and Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics. He has held this role since 2005 and oversees sports medicine care for Red Raider student-athletes.
Does Lubbock Sports Medicine offer physical therapy on-site?
Yes, Lubbock Sports Rehab is the official physical therapy clinic of the medical group. It is located at 5044 Frankford Ave in Lubbock and provides specialized rehabilitation services.
What is the ImPACT concussion test?
ImPACT stands for Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing. It is a computerized evaluation system that provides neurocognitive assessment tools to help clinicians make return-to-play decisions.
Do the physicians treat non-athletes?
Yes, the practice focuses on active people from all walks of life. While they have a strong background in sports medicine, they treat recreational athletes, weekend warriors, and active adults with orthopedic conditions.
What types of surgeries are performed at the clinic?
The clinic performs a variety of surgeries, including minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures, joint replacements, and robotic-assisted reconstruction of hips and knees.
How can I register for an appointment?
Patients can complete online registration through the Patient Resources page. It is recommended to fill out the web registration only after you have a confirmed appointment.