Episode 012 The Doctor Is In with Jeremy Summer

USA Fencing Coach Education

A former elite fencer, Jeremy Summers went on to become a chiropractor who joined the USA Fencing staff as the director of sports medicine in 2015. Jeremy works with National Team members to provide health care services and consultations. He also coordinates the medical staff at all USA Fencing national events. We discuss his background as a fencer, including being an alternate to the 2000 U.S. Olympic Team and how an injury he suffered got him on the path to sports medicine. We discuss the acute and chronic injuries common in fencing along with tips for reducing the risk of suffering such injuries. The good news is that fencing is a relatively low injury sport. A key takeaway is to have a good strength and conditioning program and also to maintain mobility as we age. Jeremy also discusses finding a good sports medicine practitioner to treat your fencers (or yourself). Tip: look for a sports medicine specialization in a healthcare provider. Jeremy talks about the scope of practice of athletic trainers, chiropractors and medical doctors. We wrap up with some discussion on treating injuries like sprains and Jeremy gives several take home messages that you can start to use immediately.