CONWAY - Tom Roberts, MD, has joined Conway Regional Health System as Medical Director of a new Sports Med- cine 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, Dr. Roberts will help to oversee six full time athletic trainers across Faulkner County.

Dr. Roberts will see patients in the center which is located in the Medical Tower of Conway Regional Medical Center.

Dr. Roberts has practiced as an orthopaedic surgeon in Conway for more than 25 years and also teaches orthopaedic surgery at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and at the Veterans Administration Medical Center.

Dr. 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 orthopedic surgeon for UCA, 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.

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