Board Certified in Family Medicine & Primary Care Sports Medicine
Dr. Richard Edgar is a Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician at Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic in Northern Virginia. He specializes in the non-operative treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, with advanced training in concussion management, diagnostic ultrasound, and ultrasound-guided injections, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Additionally, Dr. Edgar is proficient in advanced ultrasound procedures, such as TenEx, trigger finger release, and carpal tunnel release. His research interests focus on the care and management of athletes with diabetes.
Raised in Mechanicsville, MD, Dr. Edgar developed a passion for soccer early in life, inspired by his parents, Rich and Cathy Jo, who were both avid soccer players. In 2000, he had the honor of representing D.C. United's youth team at the prestigious Danone Cup in Paris, France. Competing in front of thousands of fans at Le Parc des Princes stadium against teams like São Paulo and CSKA Moscow fueled his ambition to become a professional soccer player. However, shortly after returning from Paris, Dr. Edgar was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 11, leading him to believe that his dreams were slipping away. "I vividly remember sitting in my pediatrician's office, overwhelmed at the thought of losing the ability to play the sport I love. At that moment, I had no understanding of diabetes and its impact on my life.
Following a week-long recovery from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., Dr. Edgar learned to manage his diabetes effectively. "Once I was informed that I could continue playing soccer despite my diagnosis, I was determined to do whatever it took to keep pursuing my passion." He went on to captain the U.S. Men's National Soccer teams at the U-15 and U-17 levels, continued his soccer career at George Mason University, and received numerous accolades, including induction into the George Mason Men's Soccer Hall of Fame in 2018. Ultimately, he chose to pursue a career in medicine.
Dr. Edgar is committed to bridging the gap in understanding between medical providers, coaches, and trainers regarding the unique challenges faced by elite athletes with type 1 diabetes. Through this website, he aims to empower athletes with the knowledge and support they need to reach their full potential.