Dr. Kevin Crawford, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and the Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics, performs advanced shoulder and rotator cuff surgery for athletes in West Texas. He specializes in minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures, including rotator cuff repair and shoulder stabilization. This guide details the surgical expertise, diagnostic tools, and rehabilitation pathways available at Lubbock Sports Medicine for active individuals and student-athletes.
Sports Medicine Specialists
Choosing the right surgeon is the most critical step in recovering from a shoulder injury. In West Texas, Dr. Kevin Crawford stands out as a premier authority in sports medicine. He has served as the Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics since 2005, overseeing care for Red Raider student-athletes across all varsity sports. This extensive experience with elite athletes informs his approach to treating recreational and competitive patients in the Lubbock area.
Dr. Crawford is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who completed a Sports Medicine Fellowship at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. This facility is widely recognized as one of the top sports medicine training programs in the world. During his fellowship, he received advanced training in arthroscopic knee and shoulder surgery from the surgeons who pioneered many of the techniques now used across the field. His background includes serving as a U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team Physician from 2004 to 2011, where he traveled with the U.S. Men’s Alpine Ski Team to World Cup events and Olympic training camps.
Advanced Practice Providers
At Lubbock Sports Medicine, the surgical team is supported by highly qualified advanced practice providers. Stan Kotara, PA-C works closely with Dr. Crawford and brings more than two decades of experience in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery. Stan is a fellow in the American Academy of Physician Assistants and serves as an Assistant Professor in the Athletic Training Program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. He emphasizes non-operative management whenever possible but assists in all surgeries performed by Dr. Crawford.
Another key member of the team is Jordan Williams, PA-C, who holds a Master’s in Sports Medicine and is a Certified Athletic Trainer. Jordan brings a unique blend of athletic training and physician assistant expertise, having worked with the Texas Tech Track and Field team and the Seattle Seahawks. He is deeply involved in clinical evaluations and the non-operative management of musculoskeletal problems, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care from diagnosis through recovery.
Surgical Approaches and Techniques
Shoulder surgery for athletes requires precision to preserve function and range of motion. Dr. Crawford’s practice focuses on minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, knee, and elbow. Arthroscopy is a procedure that uses a small camera and specialized instruments to repair damaged tissue with minimal incisions. This approach typically results in less post-operative pain and a faster initial recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Common procedures performed for athletes include rotator cuff repair, shoulder stabilization, and cartilage restoration. Rotator cuff repair involves reattaching torn tendons to the humerus bone. For athletes with instability, shoulder stabilization procedures, such as Bankart repairs, are performed to prevent dislocation. Dr. Crawford also utilizes biologics such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy to support healing. These biological agents can enhance tissue repair and potentially accelerate the recovery timeline for active patients.
Minimally Invasive Benefits
The minimally invasive nature of these procedures is particularly beneficial for athletes who need to return to high-level activity. Smaller incisions mean less soft tissue trauma, which can help preserve muscle strength and joint mechanics. Dr. Crawford’s expertise in these techniques allows him to tailor the surgical approach to the specific demands of the patient’s sport, whether that is throwing, swimming, or weightlifting.
The Diagnostic Process
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful treatment. Lubbock Sports Medicine is equipped with on-site x-ray capabilities to aid physicians in properly assessing a patient’s condition. Imaging is a critical component of the diagnostic workflow, allowing the surgical team to visualize bone alignment, joint space, and soft tissue integrity. For complex cases, advanced imaging such as MRI may be recommended to evaluate the rotator cuff tendons and labrum in greater detail.
Physician consultation is the first step in this process. Our sports medicine physicians evaluate the patient’s condition, review their medical history, and perform a physical examination. They present the most advanced treatment options available, ranging from conservative management to surgical intervention. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the injury and a realistic timeline for recovery.
ImPACT Concussion Testing
While this guide focuses on shoulder surgery, it is important to note that Lubbock Sports Medicine also 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. For athletes who sustain multiple injuries, having a comprehensive medical team that can address both head and musculoskeletal concerns is invaluable. Stan Kotara, PA-C, has been working with the ImPACT program with great success, ensuring that return-to-play decisions are made with the highest level of scientific rigor.
Rehabilitation and Return to Play
Surgery is only one part of the recovery journey. Rehabilitation is essential for restoring strength, stability, and range of motion. Lubbock Sports Rehab is the official physical therapy clinic of Lubbock Sports Medicine. The staff at Lubbock Sports Rehab combined have over 80 years of experience in physical therapy and athletic training. They are familiar with the doctor’s rehab protocols and maintain open lines of communication with the physicians to ensure patients receive the most appropriate rehab for their injury.
The rehabilitation process is personalized to the individual patient. From professional athletes to weekend warriors, the therapy is tailored to specific needs. The clinic utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and top-notch training to guide patients through each step of their recovery. The focus is on rehabilitation, prevention, and performance, helping patients get back to their life’s motion safely and effectively.
Outreach Athletic Training
For high school and collegiate athletes, the Outreach Athletic Training program provides on-site medical support. This program enables athletic programs without full-time athletic trainers to have professional medical staff to keep athletes off the training table and in the game. The network of athletic trainers expands to schools all around Lubbock and the South Plains, ensuring that injuries are managed promptly and effectively at the point of care.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Kevin Crawford is the Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics and a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and knee conditions.
- Dr. Crawford completed a Sports Medicine Fellowship at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado, one of the top sports medicine training programs in the world.
- Lubbock Sports Medicine offers minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery for rotator cuff repair and shoulder stabilization.
- The surgical team includes advanced practice providers like Stan Kotara, PA-C, and Jordan Williams, PA-C, who bring extensive athletic training and orthopedic experience.
- Lubbock Sports Rehab is the official physical therapy clinic, offering personalized rehabilitation with over 80 years of combined staff experience.
- The clinic provides certified ImPACT Concussion Testing, ensuring comprehensive care for athletes with multiple injuries.
- On-site x-ray capabilities and physician consultations facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
- The Outreach Athletic Training program supports high school and collegiate athletes across the South Plains with on-site medical coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best orthopedic surgeon for shoulder injuries in Lubbock?
Dr. Kevin Crawford is a leading choice for shoulder injuries in Lubbock. He is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and the Head Orthopedic Team Physician for Texas Tech University Athletics, with extensive experience treating elite athletes.
Does Dr. Crawford perform rotator cuff surgery?
Yes, Dr. Crawford specializes in minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, including rotator cuff repair. He also uses biologics such as platelet-rich plasma to support healing.
What is the difference between arthroscopic and open shoulder surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery uses small incisions and a camera to repair tissue, typically resulting in less pain and faster recovery. Open surgery involves larger incisions and is generally reserved for more complex cases.
How long does recovery take after rotator cuff surgery?
Recovery timelines vary by individual and the severity of the tear. Most patients undergo a structured physical therapy program that lasts several months to restore full strength and range of motion.
Does Lubbock Sports Medicine offer physical therapy?
Yes, Lubbock Sports Rehab is the official physical therapy clinic of Lubbock Sports Medicine. The staff has over 80 years of combined experience in physical therapy and athletic training.
Can I get an appointment for a shoulder injury without a referral?
Patients can contact the office to schedule an appointment. It is recommended to call the office first for instructions, especially if the injury is urgent.
What is ImPACT testing?
ImPACT stands for Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing. It is a computerized evaluation system used to track recovery of cognitive processes following a concussion and to make return-to-play decisions.
Does the clinic treat high school athletes?
Yes, Lubbock Sports Medicine provides services to area schools, universities, and colleges. The Outreach Athletic Training program offers on-site medical support for high school athletes across the South Plains.