Dr. Erin Mariano, MD

Dr. Erin Mariano, MD is a Sports Medicine physician dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care at her clinic in Melbourne, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she is your primary partner in creating a long-term health plan, coordinating preventative screenings, and managing your overall wellness to keep you active and injury-free. She serves individuals of all ages, from youth to senior athletes, and active people, making her a valuable resource for anyone committed to proactive health management. She is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Please call (321) 724-1084 to schedule.

Dr. Erin Mariano, MD is a sports medicine specialist in Melbourne, FL with over 15 years of experience in the medical field. She earned her medical degree from Florida State University College of Medicine in 2009 and is Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. With this wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care, she is affiliated with Melbourne Regional Medical Center and dedicated to providing collaborative, evidence-based medicine in a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Dr. Mariano provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Mariano's commitment to preventative care is deeply rooted in her 15+ years of dedicated experience. This experience, coupled with her education at Florida State University College of Medicine, and her board certification, ensures that her patients receive the highest quality care, tailored to their individual needs. Her approach emphasizes a partnership between patient and physician, fostering a proactive and empowering approach to sports medicine and overall wellness. She is accepting new patients.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Erin Mariano is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Erin Mariano can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Erin Mariano provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Repeated Shoulder Dislocation: Preventing further shoulder dislocations requires understanding your risk factors and actively managing them through physical therapy and proper conditioning.
• Patellar Fracture: Proper training techniques, including appropriate warm-up and cool-down routines, help decrease the risk of patellar fractures among athletes by reducing the strain on the kneecap.
• Patellar Tendonitis: Managing patellar tendonitis effectively involves rest, stretching, and strengthening exercises, preventing further inflammation and helping you return to your activities faster.
• Leg Fracture Above Knee (incl. Hip): Managing underlying health conditions that weaken bones can significantly reduce your risk of suffering a fracture above the knee, including the hip, promoting long-term musculoskeletal health.
• Piriformis Syndrome: Preventing piriformis syndrome often involves maintaining good posture and practicing proper lifting techniques to minimize strain on your hips and lower back.
• Osteoarthritis of Knee: Early diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis allows for timely interventions, such as physical therapy and medication, which help prevent further joint damage and preserve mobility.
• Leg Fracture Below Knee (incl. Ankle): Proper management of a lower leg fracture, including the ankle, minimizes the risk of further injury during recovery and aids in regaining full functionality.
• Medial Epicondylitis: Early detection of medial epicondylitis is key to preventing chronic pain and limited range of motion; regular self-assessment and seeking medical attention when necessary are crucial.
• Tibial Fracture: A tibial fracture, or broken shinbone, can be prevented by wearing appropriate protective gear during sports and activities, reducing your risk of serious injury and long-term complications.
• Ankle Fracture: Knowing the warning signs of an ankle fracture allows for timely intervention, leading to faster recovery and improved functional outcomes; don't ignore persistent ankle pain.
• Osteoarthritis of Wrist: Early diagnosis of wrist osteoarthritis allows for timely intervention, minimizing joint damage and preserving your wrist's function for longer.
• Snapping Hip: To prevent a snapping hip from limiting your activity and causing pain, focus on maintaining good hip flexibility and strengthening the surrounding muscles.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Erin Mariano offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair: Get back in the game faster and stronger through Achilles tendon rupture repair, a surgical solution that aids in restoring full function and minimizing long-term problems.
• Closed Hip Fracture Treatment: Ensure a successful recovery from your closed hip fracture through evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation strategies.
• Fracture Care: Protect yourself from the debilitating effects of fractures with timely and appropriate care, ensuring optimal healing and recovery.
• Hip Dislocation: A hip dislocation assessment can help determine whether you need specific exercises or lifestyle adjustments to reduce your risk of this debilitating injury.
• Knee Replacement: Protect your long-term mobility and quality of life by considering knee replacement as a solution for severely damaged knees.
• Knee Surgery: Consider knee surgery to correct structural problems like torn meniscus or osteoarthritis, improving your knee's long-term health and function.
• Meniscus Surgery: To address persistent knee pain and improve mobility, consider meniscus surgery as a proactive measure to repair or replace damaged cartilage.
• Musculoskeletal Function Test: A musculoskeletal function test is a valuable assessment to understand your current physical capabilities and identify potential risks for future musculoskeletal problems.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Sports Medicine in Florida.

Dr. Erin Mariano is dedicated to partnering with Coaches and Athletic Trainers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Athlete's life:

• By understanding their risk factors and diligently following a personalized physical therapy plan, a young athlete significantly reduced the chance of recurring shoulder dislocations, allowing them to confidently return to their favorite sports.
• By incorporating proper warm-up and cool-down routines into their training regimen, an athlete significantly reduced the strain on their kneecap, minimizing the risk of a patellar fracture and ensuring continued participation in their favorite sport.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Sports Medicine care with Dr. Erin Mariano:

What is the difference between a Sports Medicine Physician and an Orthopedic Surgeon?

Sports Medicine Physicians, like Dr. Mariano, are often the first point of contact for sports injuries, focusing on non-surgical treatment. If surgery is needed, they work closely with orthopedic surgeons to ensure the best possible care. Orthopedic surgeons are surgical specialists for the musculoskeletal system.

What is a stress fracture?

A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone, often from repetitive use or overuse. Unlike an acute fracture from a single impact, proper diagnosis and rest are vital to prevent it from worsening into a more significant break.

Do I need an MRI for my joint pain?

An MRI isn't always necessary. A thorough examination and X-rays are often sufficient to diagnose joint pain. We'll use an MRI only if the initial evaluation doesn't provide a clear answer or if we suspect a soft tissue injury.

How can I prevent common sports injuries like an ACL tear?

Preventing ACL tears and other sports injuries involves a dedicated program of neuromuscular training. This includes proper warm-up routines, strength training focused on hamstring and glute strengthening, and practicing correct landing and pivoting techniques. By focusing on these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury.

What's the difference between a sprain and a strain?

A sprain involves ligaments (bone to bone), while a strain involves muscles or tendons (muscle to bone).

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve at the wrist, often resulting in numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. Early intervention with bracing and therapy is key to preventing the need for surgery.

What is a rotator cuff tear?

A rotator cuff tear is damage to one or more of the four muscles and tendons that stabilize your shoulder joint, often from overuse or a sudden injury. Treatment focuses on relieving pain and restoring function to prevent long-term weakness and arthritis.

When is a joint replacement surgery recommended?

Joint replacement surgery is considered when arthritis pain and stiffness significantly interfere with daily activities, and less invasive treatments have proven insufficient. This decision is made collaboratively with your orthopedic surgeon to restore function and prevent a life limited by pain.

1344 S Apollo Blvd Ste 100
Melbourne FL 32901
Phone: (321) 724-1084

Dr. Erin Mariano, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1477796803

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Sports Medicine like Dr. Erin Mariano are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your sports medicine about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.