Foot and Lower Leg
These injuries are treated by a variety of specialists, including podiatrists, orthopedists, physiatrists, physical therapists, primary care sports medicine physicians, and chiropractors.

Knee
These injuries can be treated by orthopedists, physiatrists, primary care sports medicine physicians, or podiatrists.

Thigh and Hip
These injuries are often treated by orthopedists, primary care sports medicine physicians, and physiatrists. However, foot imbalances can also cause hip problems and an orthotic device fitted by a podiatrist or physical therapist may help.

Back
Back injuries can be treated by orthopedists as well as chiropractors, physiatrists, neurologists, and primary care sports medicine physicians.

What's the difference between these specialists?

Chiropractors (D.C.)
Focus on manipulation and adjustment of the spinal column and joints to treat injuries. They work to restore function and increase range of motion in a joint so that the patient can turn and bend and do more activities without being injured by limitations in movement. Chiropractors do not perform surgery, nor prescribe medications.

Family Physicians or General Practitioners (M.D. or D.O.)
Specialize in general medicine.

Orthopedic Surgeons (MD)
Treat injuries to the musculoskeletal system (muscles and bones) and related structures (ligaments, cartilage, and tendons).

Osteopathic Physicians (D.O.)
Can be licensed to practice all branches of medicine (primary care, orthopedics, or physiatry, for example) and surgery. The difference between the D.O. and MD lies in their philosophy, which stresses a scientifically based, holistic approach to treatment (focusing on anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics). In addition to using similar adjustment methods practiced by chiropractors, osteopaths specializing in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine practice forms of manual medicine rarely learned by other sports medicine specialists.

Physiatrists (MD or D.O.)
Medical doctors trained in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Their medical training focuses on managing the rehabilitation and recovery of injuries and diseases. They manage the overall rehabilitation process and often work with a team of specialists, such as physical and massage therapists.

Physical Therapists (P.T.)
Trained in physical medicine and rehabilitation. They often work with physicians to prevent an injury from occurring or to rehabilitate an injured athlete. They can fit an athlete for an orthotic device. Often, you need a referral to see a physical therapist.

Podiatrists (D.P.M.)
Specialize in the care of feet and work to prevent or treat foot injuries (or other injuries in the leg or upper body that may stem from the feet) and disease. They educate athletes about the selection of footwear, analyze gaits and prescribe orthotics to help prevent injuries.

Primary Care Sports Medicine Physicians (MD or D.O.)
Specialize in general medicine for active individuals.