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What is the difference between a Sports Medicine Degree and an Exercise Science Degree ?

I’m looking into putting on casts and working in the orthopedic field, but I’m not sure which major will benefit me more.

sports-medicine kinesiology eoy22 orthopedics exercise-science athletictrainer
Thank you comment icon Sports medicine would be a good choice. A number of people go through an Athletic Training program then go on to become orthotic fitters. Many doctor's offices hire Athletic Trainers for brace/crutch fitting. Joseph Gebke, ATC
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Garrett’s Answer

You can do a few things to get into the Ortho field. You can become a cast tech or ortho tech, you can go to PA school and then work in Ortho as a PA. Become an NP and do the same. Or if you are inclined you can always go the medical school and residency route and be the Surgeon yourself.
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Isaac’s Answer

Good Evening Kalyssa,

Your question states you’re interested in putting on casts and working in the field. I am currently an Orthopedic Tech in San Diego. The way I got into it is by joining the military and choosing Ortho Tech as my specialty. However, that route is not adequate for everybody. You can always become an Orthopedic Tech by going into an Orthopedic Technician program.

https://nbcot.net/

The field is fun and you get to do a lot of “cool” stuff but can get repetitive and tedious at times. Along with casting and splinting, techs can also put on braces and other devices. Doctors, Residents, PAs can also put on casts and splints but these are usually left for the techs. You can always hop in and help or get some training on casting and splinting.

Reach out if you have more questions!

Isaac recommends the following next steps:

Research the orthopedic field
Decide what exactly you want to do in the field
Plan your goal and steps to get there
Implement your plans and goals
Succeed and enjoy what you do!
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Michael’s Answer

Hi Kalyssa,

Exercise Science studies body mechanics, movements, functions and how the body responds and adapts. Sports Medicine incorporates Exercise Science and focuses more on athletes in the various sports and/or recreational activities.

Here is a great article that goes more in-depth between Sports Medicine and Exercise Science:

https://www.csusb.edu/sites/default/files/Exercise_Science_Careers.pdf

Some careers in Sports Medicine are Athletic Trainers, Coaches, Exercise Physiologist, Recreational Therapist and High School Teacher.

Some careers in Exercise Science are Aerobics Instructor, Athletic Director, Anatomist, Fitness Coach and Kinesiologist.

Hope this helps and good luck in pursuing a career either in Sports Medicine or Exercise Science!
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