Empowering Young Athletes: The Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Team at Texas Children’s

Young athletes benefit from top-ranked orthopedic and sports medicine care at Texas Children’s Hospital, not only because of its team’s expertise in treating athletes but also because of its high percentage of female physicians — unique in the orthopedic field, which has historically been dominated by men. Here, female physicians represent an impressive 60% of the Orthopedic and Sports Medicine teams at the Austin campus, bringing a wider range of perspectives and diversity of thought to the programs. 

Why representation matters

This team’s female physicians not only provide exceptional care but can also serve as role models for young female athletes, who are seeing an unprecedented rise in competitive participation.

“Each of us have been athletes and have experience treating elite athletes,” said Carolyn M. Landsberg, MD, FAAP, a pediatric sports medicine physician at Texas Children’s, referring to herself and her colleagues Stephanie Casella, MD, also a pediatric sports medicine physician, and Kelly Cline, MD, pediatric orthopedic surgeon. “We have experience with many of the challenges they face.”

The presence of female physicians in orthopedics can have a profound impact on young athletes — male and female alike. The physicians have observed that female athletes often feel more comfortable discussing certain health issues, such as menstrual irregularities, with a female physician. Research has shown that pediatric patients (especially females) as young as 9 years old expressed a gender preference for their physician. Meeting those preferences significantly impacted how comfortable children felt in discussing health issues. In young teen females, gender-congruent physicians are often preferred. At Texas Children’s, parents have additional choices in meeting their child’s preference.

Holistic treatment approaches

Through the community hospitals in Austin, Texas Children’s stands out not only for its team’s gender equality, but also for its comprehensive and innovative approach to sports medicine and orthopedics. First and foremost, it’s one of the few places in Austin offering board certified primary care sports medicine physicians, pediatricians who have additional training in nonoperative sports medicine. 

“Being able to offer both nonsurgical approaches as well as orthopedic surgery means we’re able to bring families all the treatment options available,” said Dr. Cline, the only dual-fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon in Austin with fellowships in both Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Pediatric Orthopedics. “We can provide the most appropriate treatment for each patient, tailored to the needs of young athletes, whether it’s a conservative approach or surgery.”

The program’s holistic approach also ensures to care for the entire athlete. The team includes a sports dietitian, mental health providers and other specialists who address the multifaceted needs of young athletes. 

“Our holistic services are designed to support the overall well-being of our patients, not just their injuries,” said Dr. Casella. “We believe that a healthy mind and body are essential for athletic success.”

To that end, an added benefit of Texas Children’s is the convenience it offers. If patients need to see other specialists, they’re all located in one place, often with same-day appointment availability. This streamlined approach reduces the stress on families and ensures that athletes receive comprehensive care efficiently. Our Sports Medicine team understands it’s often imperative for athletes to receive timely care, as they are trying to get back on the field or court quickly to continue to excel in their sport.

The team also works directly with patients’ coaches and athletic trainers to ensure continuity of care and support ongoing success. 

“Communication with coaches and athletic trainers is crucial,” said Dr. Landsberg. “By working together, we can create a cohesive plan that supports the athlete’s recovery and performance goals.”

For referring physicians, Texas Children’s North Austin Campus offers a trusted and comprehensive option for their patients. With a team of highly trained specialists, the hospital is committed to advancing the field of orthopedic and sports medicine while providing exceptional care tailored to the needs of young athletes.

Learn more about the Texas Children’s Orthopedics and Sports Medicine department. Schedule an appointment through our online portal or by calling 832-TCH-CARE (832-824-2273). Same and next-day appointments are available.