What Does a Sports Medicine Doctor Do? Services Explained
Pain and injury shouldn’t limit how you move or live. Dr. Kevin Valvano is a non-operative sports medicine physician at Garden State Sports Medicine in Parsippany, New Jersey. He specializes in non-surgical approaches to diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal injuries and pain. His goal is to help patients return to activity safely, efficiently, and with confidence.
What Is a Non-Operative Sports Medicine Physician?
A non-operative sports medicine physician treats movement-related injuries and conditions in both athletes and non-athletes. A helpful way to think about this specialty is “musculoskeletal medicine”, meaning care focused on muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons.
Who Can Sports Medicine Physicians Help
Sports medicine physicians care for runners, lifters, weekend athletes, pediatric and adolescent athletes, active parents, and individuals whose work or lifestyle places physical demands on the body. Whether the goal is returning to sport or simply walking, working, and sleeping without pain, sports medicine care is designed to meet patients where they are.
Conditions We Treat
Fractures, sprains, strains, and overuse injuries
Shoulder, elbow, and wrist pain (including rotator cuff, tennis, and golfer’s elbow)
Hip and knee pain, including arthritis and tendinopathy
Foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles disorders
Back and neck pain related to posture or movement
Concussion evaluation and management
Other musculoskeletal conditions
Core Services We Provide
Precise Diagnosis
Each visit begins with a detailed history and movement-focused physical examination to identify the true source of pain and contributing factors.
In-Office Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Point-of-care diagnostic ultrasound allows real-time visualization of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and nerves, improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.
Ultrasound-Guided Injections
When injections are appropriate, ultrasound guidance is used to ensure accurate and safe placement. Injectable options may include corticosteroids for inflammation, hyaluronic acid for arthritic knees, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for select tendon or joint conditions, trigger point injections, and nerve hydrodissection for entrapment symptoms.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
OMT incorporates a variety of hands-on techniques aimed at reducing pain, improving mobility, and restoring efficient movement patterns. These treatments are often paired with targeted exercises to support lasting recovery.
Bracing, Taping, and Activity Modification
When indicated, bracing or taping may be used to temporarily support injured structures. These tools are not long-term solutions but can assist recovery while the body regains strength and stability. Activity modifications are discussed to help patients remain active while healing.
Customized Rehabilitation Plans
Rehabilitation is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Treatment plans are tailored based on diagnosis, examination findings, lifestyle, and activity demands. When physical therapy is recommended, Dr. Valvano coordinates care and treatment goals with the physical therapist.
Concussion Care
Dr. Valvano has over a decade of experience in concussion evaluation and management. He follows current guidelines to develop individualized recovery plans, coordinates academic or workplace restrictions when needed, and provides documented return-to-school, return-to-work, and return-to-sport plans.
When to See a Sports Medicine Physician
Sudden injury symptoms such as a pop, swelling, or instability
Pain that does not improve after several days of rest
Difficulty bearing weight or using the injured area
Pain, numbness, or tingling that interferes with work, training, sleep, or daily activities
Desire for a non-surgical evaluation and a clear recovery plan
What to Expect at Your First Visit
A focused discussion of medical history, symptoms, and goals
A movement-based physical examination
Imaging when indicated, including diagnostic ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI referral
A clear explanation of the injury or source of pain
A personalized treatment and recovery plan
Defined next steps and timelines for return to activity
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do patients need to be athletes to see a sports medicine physician?
A: No. Sports medicine care is appropriate for anyone with musculoskeletal pain or injury. Surgical procedures are not performed in this practice, but alternative treatment options and appropriate referrals can be discussed when needed.
Q: Is a referral required?
A: This depends on the insurance plan. Many patients are able to schedule directly without a referral.
Q: Are injections the primary treatment?
A: No. Injections are one of several available treatment options and are used only when appropriate. Accurate diagnosis and individualized care planning come first.
Q: Will all activity need to stop during recovery?
A: Typically not. Treatment plans prioritize maintaining safe activity with appropriate modifications.
Q: How long does recovery take?
A: Recovery timelines vary based on the condition and individual factors. Expected milestones are discussed during the visit.
Your Next Step
If pain or injury is holding you back, Dr. Valvano can help. Schedule an appointment with Garden State Sports Medicine in Parsippany, New Jersey, and receive a clear plan to move better, feel better, and perform with confidence.
📞 Call: (862) 217-4355
🌐 Request an appointment: www.gssportsmed.com