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. This guide covers his professional background, surgical expertise, and the comprehensive care model he leads at Lubbock Sports Medicine.
Professional Background and Training
Dr. Kevin Crawford is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with deep roots in the Lubbock community. He grew up in Lubbock and attended Monterey High School before graduating from Baylor University in 1987. He earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas in 1992. His foundational training included an orthopedic surgery residency at UT Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Hospital, one of the busiest trauma centers in the country, which he completed in 1997.
His specialized training culminated in a Sports Medicine Fellowship at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. This facility, formerly known as Steadman-Hawkins, is widely recognized as one of the top sports medicine training programs in the world. During this fellowship, Dr. Crawford received advanced training in arthroscopic knee and shoulder surgery from the surgeons who pioneered many of the techniques now used across the field. This rigorous education allows him to bring cutting-edge surgical techniques to the South Plains.
Surgical Expertise and Treatment Philosophy
Dr. Crawford treats patients of all ages with shoulder and knee conditions. His practice focuses on minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, knee, and elbow. Key procedures include ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repair, shoulder stabilization, and cartilage restoration. He also utilizes biologics such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy to support healing. This approach aligns with the mission of Lubbock Sports Medicine, which focuses on providing the latest treatment options for orthopedic sports medicine injuries.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small incisions and a camera to view and repair damaged tissue. This technique generally results in less post-operative pain and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. Dr. Crawford’s expertise in these methods is critical for athletes who need to return to competition quickly and safely.
Biologic Therapies
Biologics are medical products derived from living organisms that can accelerate tissue repair. Dr. Crawford uses platelet-rich plasma and stem cell therapy to enhance the body's natural healing processes. These treatments are often used in conjunction with surgical or non-surgical management to optimize outcomes for active patients.
Athletic Coverage and Community Impact
Dr. Crawford has served as the Medical Director and Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics since 2005. In this capacity, he oversees sports medicine care for Red Raider student-athletes across all varsity sports. He also provides team physician coverage for Frenship and Lubbock Cooper high schools. This extensive coverage ensures that student-athletes have access to expert medical care at every level of competition.
His involvement extends beyond the university. Dr. Crawford is a key figure in the Outreach Athletic Training program, which brings professional medical staff to area high schools and programs. This initiative enables athletic programs without full-time athletic trainers to have the professional medical support needed to keep athletes safe and in the game.
Concussion Management and ImPACT Certification
Protecting the head has become of increasing importance in sports today. Dr. Crawford and his team at Lubbock Sports Medicine are the leading source for 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. It is the premier concussion management program in the country.
This computerized evaluation system provides clinicians with neurocognitive assessment tools and services that are integral in return-to-play decisions. The ImPACT test is a sophisticated test of cognitive abilities and the most scientifically researched concussion management tool. It helps health care professionals track recovery of cognitive processes following concussion and communicate post-concussion status to athletes, coaches, parents, and clinicians.
Professional Recognition and Publications
Dr. Crawford’s expertise has been recognized by multiple prestigious organizations. KCBD named him “Best of the West” in orthopedic surgery every year the individual award was given, from its inception in 2009 until the individual category was discontinued. He has been named to the Texas Super Doctors list every year since 2009. These accolades reflect his commitment to excellence in patient care and surgical outcomes.
He is also an active contributor to the medical field. Dr. Crawford has authored book chapters and published in peer-reviewed journals including Arthroscopy and Clinics in Sports Medicine. He received the Arthroscopy Association of North America award for his contributions to the field. His work helps advance the science of sports medicine and ensures that his patients benefit from the latest research. according to Office of Official
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Kevin Crawford is the Medical Director and Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics, a role he has held since 2005.
- He is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado.
- His practice focuses on minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, knee, and elbow.
- He utilizes biologics such as platelet-rich plasma and stem cell therapy to support healing.
- Dr. Crawford provides team physician coverage for Frenship and Lubbock Cooper high schools.
- He is a certified ImPACT Consultant for sports-related concussion management.
- He has been named to the Texas Super Doctors list every year since 2009.
- He has published in peer-reviewed journals including Arthroscopy and Clinics in Sports Medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the head team physician for Texas Tech 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 and oversees sports medicine care for all varsity sports.
What is Dr. Crawford's area of surgical specialization?
Dr. Crawford specializes in minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, knee, and elbow. He performs procedures such as ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repair, and cartilage restoration.
Does Dr. Crawford treat high school athletes?
Yes, Dr. Crawford provides team physician coverage for Frenship and Lubbock Cooper high schools. He also supports the Lubbock Sports Medicine Outreach Athletic Training program, which serves area high schools.
What is ImPACT testing?
ImPACT stands for Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing. It is a computerized evaluation system used to assess cognitive abilities and track recovery following a concussion. It is the premier concussion management program in the country.
Where does Dr. Crawford practice?
Dr. Crawford practices at Lubbock Sports Medicine, located at 4110 22nd Place, Lubbock, TX 79410. He is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and the Medical Director of the practice.
Has Dr. Crawford received any professional awards?
Yes, Dr. Crawford has been named to the Texas Super Doctors list every year since 2009. He was also named “Best of the West” in orthopedic surgery by KCBD from 2009 until the individual category was discontinued.
Conclusion
Dr. Kevin Crawford is a leading figure in sports medicine in the South Plains. His extensive training, surgical expertise, and dedication to athlete safety make him an invaluable resource for the Texas Tech Red Raiders and the broader Lubbock community. If you are seeking expert orthopedic care, Lubbock Sports Medicine offers comprehensive treatment options for active people from all walks of life. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, please contact our office today.