08 Aug 2017 Conway Regional, surgeon form Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Tom Roberts, MD, has joined Conway Regional Health System as medical director of a new sports medicine program as part of the formation of the Conway Regional Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. In his role and in partnership with other physicians on staff at Conway Regional, Roberts will help to oversee six full-time athletic trainers across Faulkner County.

Roberts will see patients in the center which is located in the Medical Tower of Conway Regional Medical Center. The center, which officially opened July 31, is located in Suite 302 and can be reached at 501.504.6649.

“This is another very positive step forward in the partnership that Conway Regional is creating with physicians,” said Matt Troup, president and CEO of Conway Regional Health System. “By partnering with outstanding physicians within our community in the areas of orthopaedics, cardiology, neurology, gastroenterology and other specialties, we are working to ensure that patients can find the services they need here in Conway.”

Roberts has practiced as an orthopaedic surgeon in Conway for more than 25 years.

“We are pleased to have such a respected surgeon as Dr. Roberts join Conway Regional and partner to create the Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine,” said Rebekah Fincher, corporate director of physician relations and business development. “Dr. Roberts is known for the outstanding care and for his interest in the well-being of young athletes. He is also a highly-respected educator throughout the state.”

Roberts said, “The benefit to my patients is that this new relationship integrates my experience along with the orthopedic services of Conway Regional.”

He added, “Additionally, as part of this new arrangement, in partnership with Conway Regional Health System and other local area community physicians, we will announce the creation of the Conway Regional Comprehensive Sports Outreach Program, which will create a sustainable, physician-led program focused on the needs of patients and athletes.”

Roberts completed his orthopaedics residency and internship at UAMS followed by a fellowship at the LSU Knee and Sports Medicine Clinic. He also holds a medical degree from the LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport.

Board certified in both orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine, he serves as team orthopaedic surgeon for the University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College and Central Baptist College, as well as various area high schools.

Orthopaedic surgeons are trained in the care of musculoskeletal problems. Sports medicine physicians are additionally trained in the non-musculoskeletal aspects of sports health.

Common examples include: concussions, exercise-induced asthma, overtraining and fatigue, return to play issues after being sick or injured, nutrition, training and conditioning. Orthopaedists who specialize in sports medicine complete a fellowship focused on the comprehensive care of the athlete’s orthopedic, medical and nutritional needs.

While they perform orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine physicians can also be found in training rooms and onsite at numerous athletic events.

Roberts is married to the former Joanie Thiels and has two  sons. They all currently reside in Conway.