A sports medicine physician is an MD who specializes in sports.  A CCSP is a chiropractor who specializes in sports.   The key difference between a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (or Practitioner, depending on the state board) (CCSP) and a Sports Medicine Physician lies in their training, focus, and approach to treating athletes and injuries in general. A CCSP is a chiropractor who has received specialized training in sports injuries and athlete performance optimization. They have a deep understanding of neurological and musculoskeletal functions, focusing on how these aspects influence athletic performance, particularly when dealing with stressed or injured tissues. This certification is an indication of a chiropractor's commitment to advancing their knowledge in sports-related chiropractic care. For those who further their expertise, the DACBSP - Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians - represents an advanced level of training. On the other hand, a Sports Medicine Physician is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of physical fitness and the treatment and prevention of injuries related to sports and exercise. They may come from various medical backgrounds such as family medicine, internal medicine, or orthopedics, and they receive additional training in sports medicine. Their scope is broader, often encompassing various aspects of physical health, including injury prevention, rehabilitation, performance enhancement, and managing chronic conditions through a sports-focused lens.