About Us
Our Story
Dr. Katherine Dec, a dual boarded sports medicine physician, brings a wealth of experience to Sports Med Navigator from her over 28 years of experience caring for athletes and performing artists as a physician. In addition to her fellowship in sports medicine she integrates training from physical medicine and rehabilitation, Beijing Medical University, and other functional disciplines over the years. She is board certified in both Sports Medicine and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Prior Service
A prior All-American in Track and Field, and 3 sport varsity collegiate athlete, she was inspired by others and chose to take her career into helping other athletes facing performance, injury, training challenges. She understands the usual life challenges of work, raising children, balancing family, and competing in sports.
Dr. Dec has volunteered on many sidelines and with teams from youth sports, high school, collegiate, Olympic and Paralympic teams. Her prior service with the USOPC has included Paralympics, Pan Am Games, World University Games, Pan Pacific Aquatic Games, World Masters Aquatic Championship, US Cycling Paralympic World Championship, USA Track & Field Championships, in addition to other international competitions and trials in NCAA and Masters level competitions. She has worked with USA Cycling, USA Track & Field, USA Gymnastics, USA Basketball, USA Paralympic Cycling, US Rowing, USA Goalball, USA Tae Kwon do, USA Fencing, and USA Swimming and Diving. Locally, her role as head team physician for Longwood University was blessed with many successful athletes and team experiences. In her work with elite, professional, collegiate and youth sports, she understands the sports medicine needs of the athlete.
Dr. Dec has volunteered in many roles outside of direct athlete care including Past President, American Medical Society for Sports Medicine, and as a member of the NFHS SMAC (National Federation of State High School Associations Sports Med Advisory Committee). She continues to serve as a member of the US Rowing Sports Medicine Committee, the SMAC of the VHSL (Virginia High School League), as physician director of the Board of Certification for the athletic trainer, and is a Professor at VCU School of Medicine. She stays current on the safety and health issues faced by athletes in different settings.
Our Mission & Vision
Dr. Dec’s curiosity in the best practice, science and optimal outcomes for sports medicine issues keeps her well-read and engaged in teaching, research, and publishing. The field of sports medicine is flooded with information, and treatment continues to evolve. Areas such as Esports, optimal care and translational training specific for the female athlete are part of this trend. She brings her expertise to each person she treats and her happiest moment is when you succeed in living the active life you seek.
What We Do
Educate on sports medicine issues - one-on-one appointment, or large group presentations
One on one care with a fellowship trained, board certified physician
We are not a chronic pain or spine specialist.
Education and Certification
Undergraduate Education:
B.A., Chemistry, English, Albion College. Albion MI
Medical Education:
M.D., Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. East Lansing, MI
Residency:
Internship, St. Vincent’s Hospital and Healthcare Systems. Indianapolis, IN
Residency, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, MCV (now VCUHealth Systems). Richmond, VA
Fellowship:
Primary Care Sports Medicine & Electromyography
Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Board Certifications:
Sports Medicine, ABPMR
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, ABPMR
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see you as my primary physician for all my medical conditions?
In short, no. While sports medicine physicians address many medical, musculoskeletal and symptom issues related to sports and exercise, I value a team approach with you– and your primary care physician. As a consultative practice, I encourage communication with your primary care physician and working as a team.
Does Sports Med Navigator consider 'alternative' treatments to the ‘traditional’ medicine model?
Yes, evidenced based medicine is key, and we have always considered sports medicine IS integrative care with options in non-traditional, ‘alternative’ areas that you may not have experienced in standard physical therapy or medical treatment plans. Evidence based medicine for ideal outcomes is part of looking at ALL of your options.