Robert
Martin
PEDIATRIC SPORTS MEDICINE
SAY HELLO TO
DR. MARTIN
A benefit to pediatric sports medicine is that almost every patient will improve with appropriate treatment. Although the initial visits and diagnoses can sometimes be emotionally challenging, seeing the improvement over time side-by-side with the patient and their family is very special.
Outside of direct patient care, I think sports medicine is also a specialty that emphasizes and encourages being part of a team. Being able to work with athletic trainers, physical therapists, orthopedic surgeons and others on a day-to-day basis is not only a unique opportunity for me to learn but also for our patients to receive expert-level care in all areas.
street cred
Undergrad
Texas A&M University
Med School
McGovern Medical School, UT Houston - M.D.
Internship
University of Texas, Dell Medical School Pediatric Residency
Residency
University of Texas, Dell Medical School Pediatric Residency
Fellowship
University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus - Fellowship
Professional Societies
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Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine (PRiSM)
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American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
OFF THE RECORD
FUNNIEST MOMENT
Working in pediatrics, thankfully I’ve had several that come to mind. A few years ago, I remember seeing an 8-year-old in clinic for a check-up. I was going through my exam, and noticed that he had raised his hand. I was a bit confused at first but then realized it was because he had a question, and his parents had always taught him to raise his hand if he had any questions.
He went on to do this about four or five times throughout the visit, and had a thoughtful question each time. His parents and myself kept trying to tell him he didn’t need to raise his hand, but he wanted to do it because he felt it was polite. Might be my favorite patient of all time.
WHAT ARE YOU FAMOUS FOR AT CTPO?
My TV character comparison in residency was Ron Swanson, which I feel like speaks most to the dry humor I bring to work. I’ve also been known to get into fairly passionate conversations about A&M athletics and Texas Rangers baseball.
FAVORITE THING TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK
When it’s not 110 degrees outside, I will always say yes to getting out on the golf course. Please don’t ask me what my handicap is. I will also watch just about any sporting event on TV (as long as my son allows changing the channel from Bluey) and enjoy learning about the intricacies of each.
FAVORITE TIP FOR PARENTS
Never be afraid to ask questions and never be afraid to ask for help. You are as much of a member of the care team as any physician, practitioner, nurse, athletic trainer, etc. and deserve to be valued as such. It is our job to accurately diagnose and treat your child, but also to ensure you are informed and comfortable with whatever the treatment plan may be.
FAMILY LIFE
My wife and I are high-school sweethearts and have been married since 2020. We were both raised in South-Central Texas, and although we are both Aggies, have grown to love living in Austin. We have one small, but mighty, son who keeps us very busy and entertained.
WHAT DO YOU WANT PATIENTS TO KNOW
I’ve been told by some (mostly my wife) that I’m basically an adult teenager at heart when it comes to my hobbies which still include playing videogames with friends and overestimating (again, coming from my wife) my current athletic capabilities. On a more serious note, I want my patients to always feel they have a voice when it comes to their health and that their input and buy-in is often the most important. I want to get to know you, the sport or activity you love to do and how we can help you get back to that. I’ve had the privilege to have worked with youth athletes all the way to professional/olympic athletes, and hope to provide the same level of care to each one of my patients.
SUBSPECIALTY FOCUS
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, Pediatric Fracture Care, Non-Operative Rehabilitation, Throwing Athletes, Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport, Sports Performance, Sideline Coverage, Mental Health Impact of Injuries
Testimonial
We had such a positive experience with Dr. Martin. He is an excellent pediatric orthopedist—knowledgeable, professional, and very kind. His bedside manner is wonderful; he took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure we understood the treatment plan. Dr. Martin has a great way with children—patient, gentle, and good-natured, which immediately put us at ease. It’s clear he truly cares about his patients and their families. I would highly recommend Dr. Martin to anyone looking for a skilled and compassionate pediatric orthopedist.