The overall number of participants in high school sports increased for the 29th consecutive year in 2017-18, according to the annual High School Athletics Participation Survey conducted by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). This steady increase in the number of girls participating in high school sports reached an all-time high of 3,415,306, and boys participation also set a new standard at 4,565,580.

 

“This is why it is important for United Hospital Center to continue delivering personalized care when it’s needed most and to be more accessible to high school athletes in the community,” said Chris Courtney, DO, orthopaedic surgeon with UHC Orthopaedics. “United Orthopaedic and Spine Center is extending its hours by opening a 'Friday Night Lights' Clinic during football season from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.”

 

UHC’s orthopaedic specialists work well with patients in the community because they’re a part of the community. They understand the importance of being there for these young patients when it’s convenient – even if that means after the big game.

 

“Along with orthopaedic specialists onsite, there will also be both X-Ray and Imaging capabilities on-hand,” said Joseph Fazalare, MD, orthopaedic surgeon with UHC Orthopaedics. “By extending our hours, we can diagnose, treat, and provide rehabilitation to athletes in their own backyard. We understand each patient has their own set of goals and limitations, but at UHC Orthopaedics, we aim to get them healed and back to their sport, when it is time.”

 

Dr. Courtney and Dr. Fazalare, function as medical professionals for four college football teams–Glenville State College, Fairmont State University, Salem University, and Alderson Broaddus College. Dr. Courtney can also be seen frequently on the sidelines at Bridgeport High School football games.

 

So where did the idea stem from?

 

“My partner Dr. Courtney had the idea earlier in the year. He called me late one night and asked me what I thought and I loved the idea,” said Fazalare. “From our perspective, access is big.

 

“Getting kids seen as opposed to waiting to Wednesday of next week is important. You want to get the ball rolling if something such as an x-ray or an MRI is needed,” said Fazalare. “On top of that parents want to know the situation and the kid competing wants to know the situation.”

 

Fazalare said during many of the college football games attended by himself and Courtney they see others for evaluation. He said it usually takes place in training rooms at halftime of the contests.

 

“Last Saturday while at Glenville State College, we had two members of the women’s soccer team get evaluated,” said Fazalare. “We’re trying to be as accessible as possible.”

 

The United Orthopaedic and Spine Center also offers Saturday and evening hours, along with the new hours from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday. For information, contact United Orthopaedic and Spine Center, located at 227 Medical Park Drive, Bridgeport, WV, by calling (681) 342-3500.

 

Editor's Note: Photo above shows Dr. Joseph Fazalare, left, and Dr. Chris Courtney. Photo courtesy of United Hospital Center.