Why do we need specialists in sports medicine: All you need to know

Lack of skilled professionals and more demand is leading to a gap in this sector
With youngsters giving importance to sports as a career, the demand for dedicated professionals in management, training and medical aid for the sportsmen is on a rise.
Sports medicine as a subject, where students are trained to help sportspersons improve their performance, prevent injuries while playing and manage their training and nutrition, is gaining popularity.While the demand is increasing, Indians are yet to recognise it as a full-fledged career option.
“Doctors specialising in sports medicine play an important role in training the sportsperson mentally, so that, they can prevent themselves from injury. In other countries, sports medicine is highly popular as they give importance to scientific training methods and equipment,” said Shweta Shenoy, head of Sports Medicine Department, Guru Nanak Dev Medical University, Punjab.
Although the course is being offered since 1998, it has been at a nascent stage. Recognising this gap, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has funded as many as five universities across India at the end of 2017. Medical colleges in New Delhi, Bihar, Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have been offering courses in sports sciences at postgraduate level.
A candidate with MBBS degree with a minimum of 50% marks is eligible to apply for this postgraduate (PG) course. Candidates can apply for MD, MPhil and PhD in sports medicine. The master's courses have niche specialisations such as Biomechanics, Exide Physiology, Nutrition and Physical Therapy.
“Besides academic knowledge, the students should have a team spirit and ability to communicate and understand the requirement of sportspersons,” added Shenoy.
– Aparna Sharma