The Valley offers a variety of activities, including hiking, skiing, biking, and sports. If you enjoy these activities, you may suffer from an injury or pain. Sports medicine doctors specialize in treating injuries to muscles, bones, or ligaments caused by sports, activities, or exercise. They can also manage arthritis.
Dr. David Kim is a Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine specialist at Snoqualmie Valley Hospital Clinic.
Kim received his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine in 1995. He completed his internship at New England Deaconess Hospital General Surgery and his residency at the University of Washington Medical Center for Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. His fellowship for Sports Medicine is from the University of Washington Medical Center. Kim is board certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Kim treats injuries and illnesses related to sports injuries and other conditions involving the arms, legs, back, and neck. “By providing proper diagnostic tests, I develop a treatment plan with the patient to help them return to the activities they previously enjoyed,” he said.
His focus is to decrease pain and restore function and performance without surgery.
“In almost 90% of cases, we can help patients improve function and return to their previous level of activity without surgery,” said Kim.
Describing a mid-thirties female patient with severe ankle pain and swelling, Kim recommended a walking boot, physical therapy, medication, and orthotic shoes. After treatment, her tendonitis healed, and she resumed activities.
As a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician, Kim specializes in treating bone, muscle, nerve, and brain injuries resulting from illnesses or injuries.
Steve Weaver, a North Bend resident, sought treatment from Kim after a car accident in 2014. Kim recommended therapy but ordered an MRI when Weaver couldn’t return to his prior activity level. The MRI revealed a ruptured disc, and though sports medicine doctors don’t operate, Kim expedited a surgeon referral.
“Dr. Kim identified the cause of my pain, provided the proper diagnosis, and got me the treatment I needed to heal,” said Weaver. “I’ve referred three others with back issues to him, and he helped them recover without surgery.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 425-831-2313. Snoqualmie Valley Hospital Clinic is at 9801 Frontier Avenue SE, Snoqualmie.