Key Takeaways

  • Doctors support athletes from training prep to post-match recovery.
  • Sports medicine boosts performance, not just treats injuries.
  • Prehab prevents injuries before they happen.
  • Nutrition and mental health are vital for recovery.
  • Doctors are long-term partners in an athlete’s success.

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Doctors' Role in Sports: Beyond Injuries 


In the fourth episode of Sports Pe Charcha – E4, host V.S Rawat (World Executive Member, WFMC) talks with Dr. Saketh, a well-known sports doctor and surgeon. They explore how doctors in sports do much more than just treat injuries. 

Today, medical professionals are helping athletes improve their performance, recover faster, eat better, and build mental strength. Dr. Saketh explains that a doctor’s role begins before an injury and continues throughout an athlete’s career. From helping players prepare matches to guiding them during recovery, doctors play an important part in every stage. 

This episode shows that sports doctors are not just for emergencies — they are key partners in an athlete’s success. 


More Than Injury Management

 

When we think about doctors in sports, we often picture them running onto the field to help an injured player. But as this episode shows, a sports doctor does much more than just give first aid. 

Dr. Saketh shares that injury treatment is just the beginning. “A sports doctor is part of the entire athletic journey, from training preparation to post-competition recovery,” he says. Their job is to ensure the athlete is not only healed but also performing at their highest level, both physically and mentally. 


Performance Enhancement Through Science

 

Modern sports medicine is deeply connected with performance science. Dr. Saketh explains how data-based decisions, injury history analysis, and personalized physical therapy are now essential parts of an athlete’s routine. 

He adds, “A player’s career can be extended by 4–5 years with proper medical support, regular screenings, and customized physical care.” This kind of support is especially crucial in high-pressure games where even a minor weakness can affect performance


The Importance of Rehab and Prehab 


Rehabilitation is important, but Dr. Saketh emphasizes "prehab" — a proactive approach to preventing injuries in the first place. He encourages coaches, athletes, and parents to understand that early guidance and body awareness can save years of setbacks. 

This is especially important for young athletes in grassroots and school-level sports, where injuries often go unnoticed or untreated due to lack of awareness. 


Nutrition and Mental Health 


Another key topic in the discussion was nutrition and mental strength, areas often ignored in traditional sports setups. According to Dr. Saketh, a balanced diet tailored to an athlete’s needs and psychological support for stress and focus are now part of routine medical advice. 

Your muscles recover faster when your mind is at peace,” says Dr. Saketh, highlighting how mental and physical recovery goes hand in hand. 


Need for Awareness and Education 


Both the host and the guest agree that there is still a lack of awareness about the role of medical professionals in Indian sports. Dr. Saketh urges schools, academies, and parents to invest in proper sports science support systems. 

V.S. Rawat adds, “It’s time to see doctors as performance partners, not just emergency responders.” He believes that with more medical involvement, Indian sports can compete at the highest global levels with confidence. 


Key Quotes from the Episode: 


  1. "A player’s career can be extended by 4–5 years with proper medical support and regular screening." – Dr. Saketh 
  2. "It’s time to see doctors as performance partners, not just emergency responders." – V.S. Rawat 

This episode offers an eye-opening perspective on the future of Indian sports. It’s not just about training harder—it’s about training smarter, with expert medical support guiding every step. 

Join our Sports Pe Charcha here: https://hswf.network/charcha  

Watch the full episode 4 here: https://youtu.be/5qGFDw-_-Fo?si=xflOAwykZvAaTb6V