Rothman Institute, Phillies present annual sports medicine symposium

This Saturday, the Phillies and Rothman Institute will host the 6th annual Sports Medicine Symposium at Citizens Bank Park.

The event, which begins with registration and continental breakfast at 6:30 a.m., is targeted for sports medicine physicians, physical therapists, certified athletic trainers and other professionals. Sports Doc panelist Dr. Michael Ciccotti, Director of the Sports Medicine team at Rothman Institute and head team physician for the Phillies, will present along with fellow Rothman Institute sports physicians and Phillies Certified Athletic Trainers and strength/conditioning coaches.

"We'll be looking at common sports injuries—specifically, those in the overhead and the throwing athlete," says Dr. Ciccotti.

Combining didactic presentations and breakout sessions, the panel will review basic anatomy, principles of physical examination, and appropriate stretching and conditioning.

"Over the first 5 years, we've had a tremendous response from local professionals, and we're expecting the same this year," adds Dr. Ciccotti. "We're really looking forward to this event."

Dr. Ciccotti will start the event with a presentation on elbow and shoulder injuries, followed by Phillies Head Athletic Trainer Scott Sheridan, MS, PT, ATC discussing the biomechanics of pitching and their effects on the shoulder and elbow.

Rothman Institute physicians Marc Harwood, MD; Steven Cohen, MD; Christopher Dodson, MD; Robert Frederick, MD; and Brad Tucker, MD will present on topics including hands-on examinations and long-term/short-term outcomes following surgery. Dr. Peter Vitanzo will offer a presentation specific to the female athlete.

The event will conclude around 1:30 with a Q&A with the panel of presenters and lunch for all attendees.

The inaugural symposium was held the winter following the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship and has grown in size and popularity since. Rothman Institute representatives report over 150 local professionals will be attending, with an almost equal number on the wait list.

“The event has become something that gives us great pride,” summarizes Dr. Ciccotti. “We enjoy the community outreach and the opportunity to meet and share our experiences with so many professionals.”

Read more Sports Doc for Sports Medicine and Fitness.