Whether we are gearing up for the start of a new competition season or recovering from an injury, doctor’s visits are critical to our well-being as women athletes. But these visits can sometimes feel overwhelming because of the complex nature of our health and wellness. VIS Expert and Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon, Meghan Bishop, MD, shares her tips on how to approach our next appointment with confidence and clarity.
Preparing for an Injury-Related Visit
Injury-related doctor visits can be challenging for many reasons. For one, there’s always the physical discomfort associated with the injury itself, but there’s also the fear of a diagnosis. It’s critical that before entering these visits, we acknowledge our own resilience before stepping inside.
Before our appointment, make sure to keep a positive attitude by reminding ourselves that we are taking the necessary steps to ensure our health. Try repeating an affirmation before the appointment: Bishop suggests telling ourselves something like, “this is going to help me get better and get back on the field stronger.” It can also be important to bring along a trusted friend or family member, or even a trainer, that can offer support and help us understand the doctor’s advice.
During an Injury-Related Visit
Make sure to be 100 percent transparent. “Honest communication is incredibly important in having a successful interaction and outcome,” Bishop says. Clear, straightforward information is key for the doctor to “determine that the athlete is ready to get back out on the field safely.”
“Honest communication is incredibly important in having a successful interaction and outcome at your next doctor’s appointment.”
Preparing for Routine Check-Ups
In preparation for our next check–up, we should be sure to stay alert and in tune with our bodies and minds. Bishop advises us to take note of “lingering pain that does not go away after a day or two of rest, excess fatigue, and irregular or missed periods.” These factors can be signs of improper rest and fuel, both of which are essential to our success as women athletes.
We should also pay attention to our mental health by being aware of “feelings of loss of enjoyment in sport.” If we do notice these difficult emotions, Bishop suggests that we “reach out to a coach, friend, teammate, or physician to talk.”
During Check-Ups
In addition to injury-related visits, it’s also important to advocate for ourselves during traditional check-ups. These routine appointments serve as touching points to ensure the protection of our bodies and minds. Bishop advises that we should be “able to ask about the specifics of our menstrual cycles” in order to understand how periods affect our habits as athletes and as people. We should also be sure to be open and honest about our mental health. Bishop notes that “in order to excel in sports, being both physically and mentally healthy is key.”
Feeling comfortable with our doctors and being able to ask important questions is crucial for us to maintain overall well-being and peak athletic performance. Doctor's visits can be daunting, but maintaining a positive and honest attitude can make the appointment more beneficial.
