Getting Physical, as in Therapy

Doctors in a variety of fields specialize in sports medicine. Some are primary care physicians who make sports injuries and diseases a specialty; others are already specialists in another field, such as orthopedic surgeons who focus on the body’s skeleto-muscular system.

There is debate about which type of doctor is best for which injuries, but most eventually refer many patients to a physical therapist as part of treatment. In order to be licensed, physical therapists must pass rigorous state testing before they can practice in California.

The following is a list of hospital-affiliated North County sports medicine or physical therapy clinics. In addition, most orthopedists and many general practitioners offer sports medicine services:

* Scripps Memorial Hospital--North County Sports Rehab. 615 Westlake Street, Encinitas; 942-6433.

* Palomar Medical Center--physical rehabilitation. 555 East Valley Parkway, Escondido; 739-3340.

* Fallbrook Hospital--physical therapy clinic. 624 East Elder Street, Fallbrook; 728-1191.

* Tri-City Medical Center--physical rehab and sports therapy. 161 Thunder Drive, Suite 112, Vista; 940-7278.

* Pomerado Hospital, physical rehab and sports therapy. 12630 Monte Vista Road, Poway; 485-4636.

* Scripps Clinic & Research Foundation--Sports Therapy Clinic. 10666 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla; 554-8904.