From the clinic straigth to the pitch

Dr. Ohm, how did it come about that you became team doctor at TV Olpe?
Dr. Christian Ohm: I grew up in Olpe, and handball was simply part of our school life. Almost everyone played, it was part of everyday life. Sport was also formative for me. Later, during my studies and my time as an assistant, I played for various clubs, but when I returned to Olpe in 2004, I wanted to get back in touch with my home club. A serious knee injury put an end to my own active handball career, but I wanted to give something back. So I initially set up a children's handball group. Many of the players from back then are still active in the club today – and my son is also in the hall.

Handball is considered one of the most physically intensive sports. Which injuries do you deal with most frequently?
Dr. Christian Ohm: The spectrum is broad. Typical injuries are shoulder and elbow problems caused by throwing, as well as ankle and knee injuries, torn ligaments and overuse injuries. In handball, there are also many finger injuries, lacerations or bruises, especially in duels. However, it is important to me not only to treat acute injuries. I also take into account players' pre-existing conditions, for example we have a diabetic in the team. I also keep an eye on general health aspects such as heart and circulation. For me, all of this is just as important as providing rapid assistance on the sidelines.

How do the players benefit from the close contact with the Sportklinik Hellersen?
Dr. Christian Ohm: Very specifically through short distances and fast processes. If a player gets injured, he will be at our clinic a short time later. We can immediately arrange for imaging and, if necessary, operate at short notice.

What does a typical match day look like for you?
Dr. Christian Ohm: I'm usually there during the warm-up. I take a close look to see whether a player has any limitations or whether someone who is injured is fit enough today. During the game, of course, I'm always ready to intervene if something happens. After the final whistle, I speak to the players again and ask about falls or strains. It's not just about acute care, but about keeping the athletes healthy in the long term.

What appeals to you personally about the job as team doctor?
Dr. Christian Ohm: It's the combination of my medical expertise and my passion for handball. The sport still fascinates me to this day, and being close to the team motivates me immensely. I want the players to be sure that they can rely on their bodies and get help quickly in an emergency. When a player returns to the pitch with confidence after an injury, it's a special moment – for them, but also for me as a doctor.

What goals are you and TV Olpe pursuing for the future?
Dr. Christian Ohm: Of course, I want the club to be successful on the pitch and continue to climb the ladder. But youth work is just as important to me. Handball needs to reach more children again. If we manage to get them interested in the sport and at the same time enable them to develop in a healthy way, that will be the biggest gain.

What significance does the Olympic bid have for you personally and for the Sportklinik Hellersen?
Dr. Christian Ohm: For me, the Olympics are a symbol of performance, fairness and enthusiasm in sport. For the sports clinic, it is an opportunity to show the role we play in competitive sport – not only for professionals, but also for many regional clubs such as TV Olpe. We offer highly specialized medical care that ensures that athletes can pursue their passion with joy and safety. The fact that we have also successfully treated international athletes illustrates the clinic's appeal far beyond the region.