The Doctor Is In: Meet MAINEiacs Team Physician, Dr. Paul Cain

Published on January 11, 2011 under Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL)
Lewiston MAINEiacs News Release


Dr. Paul Cain is an original MAINEiac. Well, he did grow up in northern Vermont, but he has been Team Physician for the Lewiston MAINEiacs since the organization's inception. Already the team doctor for Bates College, Dr. Cain's specialty in sports medicine and his professional certification as an orthopaedic surgeon made him a natural choice for the position in 2003. He recently took time out from his practice to reflect on his 7 1/2 seasons with the MAINEiacs, on player injuries and injury prevention, and on his divergent support of the Canadiens and Bruins.

Aside from it being work, do you enjoy the game of hockey

I really enjoy hockey. It's a tough, fast game where hard work usually gets rewarded. I think, more than any other sport, it requires a combination of strength and finesse. I didn't get a chance to play when I was a kid, but I played on an intramural team during medical school and had a blast. I've been interested in the sport ever since.

Do you have a favorite NHL team

Growing up I was a Montreal Canadiens fan. When I was training in Pittsburgh, it was the Penguins. Now I follow the Bruins. I am still a little torn when the Bruins play the Habs. I hope that doesn't drive the die hard Bruins fans a little crazy! Mostly I enjoy watching former MAINEiacs doing well in the NHL, regardless of who they are playing for.

Not to make it a horror show, but are there any injuries during a MAINEiacs game that stand out to you professionally

There have been plenty of "yard sale" checks, some joints and noses to put back into place, and a lot of bumps and bruises. Most players at this level have learned how to protect themselves while still playing hard hockey.

If a visiting player is injured here, what kind of interaction occurs with his trainer

I spend a lot of my time at games treating injuries to the other team's players. The interaction with the trainers and coaches is always professional. The medical staff on both sides understands we are there for the safety of the players - not to try to get an advantage for our respective teams. Even though the teams can seem like they want to tear one another apart on the ice, there is a lot of mutual respect for players in the locker room.

If one of our guys is injured on the road, does he return here for evaluation before any additional treatment plans are made, and how does insurance work

Emergency treatment is given as is necessary, I will often get a call about the player, and I will then see him when the team returns. Unfortunately, insurance coverage is a problem. Most players are covered only for immediate care of injuries. That is often the reason why players have to return to Canada for elective surgery.

There is now an increased emphasis on preventing head injuries in professional sports. The NFL has cracked down, as has the NHL with hits to the head. MAINEiacs players have suffered concussions this year. What is your assessment of how well QMJHL players are protected from head injury

The QMJHL has appropriately addressed the issue of head trauma by stressing enforcement of the rules against blows to the head and hitting from behind. The players are also required to have cognitive testing done prior to the season. Retesting a player after a concussion is the best way to determine when he is safe to return. The "young" brain of a junior hockey player is especially vulnerable to trauma and its after effects, so we try to err on the side of safety.

Is there anything else you'd like to share with fans

The MAINEiacs are good for Lewiston! I have worked with the ownership for a long time, and I am impressed with their dedication to the game and this city. Many would be surprised at their willingness to take economic losses and still keep the team here, pressing on for another President's Cup and Memorial Cup appearance.

Thank you, Dr. Cain, for your insight and your continued support of our players' wellness. - Sarah Alto

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League Stories from January 11, 2011


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central