Sports medicine. 5. The physiatrist as team physician

This self-directed learning module highlights important aspects of the evaluation and care of the injured athlete by a team physician. It is part of the chapter on sports medicine in the Self-Directed Medical Knowledge Program for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation. This article covers the components of a preparticipation examination, the on-field evaluation of head, spine, and limb injuries, and return-to-play criteria after specific injuries. Sports medicine for the physically challenged athlete, medicolegal considerations for the team physician, and anabolic steroids are also reviewed.