SPORTS EDITOR – DIDIER CADENA
St. Mary’s University- Having the option to receive the right care from the right people and at the right time is something that many student athletes think about. Injuries are scary and can happen when someone would least expect it. Getting injured is something that can be very detrimental and change an athlete’s life. To student athletes who rely on scholarships to cover the cost of their attendance at a university, the probability of getting injured and losing their scholarships is a worry that is also considered. In the past decade, universities’ attitudes have been dramatically changing in how they treat athletes, and the relationship between sports medicine and rehabilitation. So, a recent partnership from the University that has been years in the making shows that the best care is needed for our athletes.
Recently, the St. Mary’s Athletics Department announced a new collaboration with both the Sports Medicine Association of San Antonio and Texas Physical Therapy Specialists (TexPTS). This collaboration will help put St. Mary’s Athletics at the forefront of sports medicine departments in Division II sports. The collaboration brings forth a connection to the university community that would not have been possible through the standard clinic and in a place where they might feel more comfortable.
TexPTS has provided care for over 15 years to help people get back on track in their recovery goals. This will be done by establishing clear goals and setting realistic expectations that strive for long-term recovery success. They also claim that they impact their patients’ lives by providing the best possible care and results through proven research, innovative treatments and technologies, and doing so in a way that treats their patients like family. TexPTS also hosts the largest amount of board-certified specialists in physical therapy in the state of Texas. The Sports Medicine Association of San Antonio Texas prides itself on its promise of, any athlete, any injury, anytime. They also have specializations in orthopedic, joint preservation, sports medicine, foot and ankle and concussion therapy services. Another outcome of the collaboration is the opening of the new physical therapy clinic that has recently been open to the public back in August. This is the seventh location for the Sports Medicine Association of San Antonio Texas and the fourth in collaboration with TexPTS. The clinic is also accessible to St. Mary’s students, faculty, and staff in need of physical therapy services. Anyone in need of services can schedule an appointment through a referral line through the Sports Medicine Association of San Antonio Texas. The implantation of the office will also allow those who visit to use either their own private insurance, or the one that is provided by the University’s office, and will be housed on the first floor of the Alumni Athletics & Convocation Center.
The ability to provide coverage on and off the field, whether through a field or in a clinic, is something that should leave many excited and relieved. The faster and sooner that the University’s student athletes can safely rehabilitate and recover to once again perform at the highest level possible is one of the leading factors behind the collaboration.
The fact that even those who don’t fall under the category of student athlete can still schedule appointments with the office and receive care on campus is a great thing to see. For those members of the St. Mary’s community who are interested and in need of scheduling an appointment, the office can reached at (210) 798-8591.