Medical Services & Treatments
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you see pediatric patients?
All athletes, regardless of age, are welcome for evaluation by our sports medicine specialists.
How long will my appointment take?
The length required for a thorough evaluation will vary from one patient to the next. In general, a patient with a new injury should expect the evaluation process to take approximately 30 minutes. The evaluation process for return a complaint typically requires 15 minutes to complete.
If I have already had x-rays, will I need new ones?
This depends upon the circumstances. At times, even when a patient has had a set of films taken, we will request an additional set to be taken as special views may be required for completeness. If prior exams are beyond a certain date and the condition tends to be progressive in nature, our physicians also may ask for a new set of films. All of the UF sports medicine clinics have x-ray equipment on site to prevent untimely delays.
How long will I need physical therapy?
This will depend upon the circumstances. Physical therapy sessions for nonoperative conditions average six weeks with two sessions per week. Post-surgical therapy will vary, but often consists of three to four months of therapy with two sessions per week.
How long will it take for me to recover from surgery?
This will vary upon the surgical procedure and age and activity level of the patient. It can take as few as two weeks to up to a year in some cases.
How long will I be out of school or work after surgery?
This varies by the surgical procedure, age of the patient and physical demands of the job. It can take as few as several days to as long as several months to recover enough to return to school or work.
Do residents do the surgeries?
The attending surgeon is the primary surgeon, while residents are there to assist and learn. At no time are our residents unsupervised in surgery or clinic.
Where do you perform your surgeries?
Greater than 90 percent of sports medicine and shoulder procedures can be done in an outpatient basis. We operate at Medical Partners Surgical Center adjacent to our Emerson location and at Shands Jacksonville.
When can I go back to work?
Generally, you can return to work after your incision is healed and you are able to walk without pain. This is usually seven to ten days for desk jobs.
When can I apply weight?
For more extensive procedures of the foot and ankle (fusions, some fracture repairs, etc.), you may need to keep weight off and be in a protective cast for eight to ten weeks. Following some forms of bunion surgery and many forefoot procedures, you may be allowed to walk after surgery in a protective shoe.
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