Sports Medicine Center for Young Athletes
The UCSF Sports Medicine Center for Young Athletes is the first sports medicine clinic in Northern California to work exclusively with young people. We offer comprehensive care – evaluating, treating and training athletes, ages 5 to 25, who compete or participate at any level.
Specialized care for sports injuries in children and young adults is important because the bones and cartilage in growing bodies tend to be more susceptible to different injuries than those in physically mature athletes. Without correct treatment, overuse injuries in young athletes can lead to lasting disabilities that extend into adulthood.
Trained and experienced in the most current methods, our experts provide comprehensive medical care for injured patients to help them regain or reach their own highest levels of performance. The Sports Medicine Center for Young Athletes also offers access to orthopedic surgery, including leading-edge minimally invasive surgery.
Each patient who comes to us receives care from a team of experts who works exclusively with young athletes. Our team includes:
- Pediatric orthopedic surgeons
- Pediatric sports medicine doctors
- Physical therapists specializing in sports
- Certified athletic trainers
- Biomechanists
- Kinesiologists
- Certified strength and conditioning specialists
- Sports nutritionists
Equally dedicated to athlete injury prevention, we focus on enhancing the efficiency of the training process, educating and supporting coaches and managers, and improving the understanding of sports science through the center's ongoing research.
Our locations (8)
Awards & recognition
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Ranked among the nation's best in 11 specialties
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One of the nation's best for orthopedics
Highlights of our orthopedic care
Kid-focused care
Our entire care team is specially trained to work with children. They understand growth and development, have expertise in pediatric conditions, and are skilled in the treatment approaches – both surgical and nonsurgical – that work best for young people.
A broad network
Our multiple locations across the Bay Area make it easy for families to access care. For those who live farther away, we also offer follow-up care through video visits and referrals to community-based orthopedic surgeons.
Many experts under one roof
At each of our facilities, patients have access to pediatric specialists, physical therapists and occupational therapists.
Care for all ages
We treat the full range of orthopedic concerns in pediatric patients ranging from newborns to young adults. We also ensure seamless care as our patients enter adulthood by coordinating with their new providers.
Our programs
Plan your visit
What to Bring
- Photo I.D.
- Health insurance card
- Insurance authorization, if required
- Doctor's referral, if required
- Recent test results related to your child's condition
- List of medications, including dosages, plus any your child is allergic to
- List of questions you may have
- Device or paper for taking notes
Related clinics (4)
7
Pediatric Orthopedic Clinic
Support services
Tender wagging care
Our therapy dogs spread joy and smiles at the bedside and throughout the hospital.
Visit Child Life services