What is an athletic trainer?
Athletic Trainers are health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to optimize patient and client activity and participation in athletics, work and life. The practice of athletic training encompasses the prevention, examination and diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of emergent, acute, subacute and chronic neuromusculoskeletal conditions and certain medical conditions in order to minimize subsequent impairments, functional limitations, disability and societal limitations.
What certifications does an athletic trainer have?
To become an athletic trainer, a student must graduate with a bachelors or masters degree from an accredited professional athletic training education program and pass a comprehensive test administered by the Board of Certification. After certification, athletic trainers must meet ongoing continuing education requirements in order to remain certified.
What does an athletic trainer do?
Athletic trainers provide physical medicine, rehabilitative and preventative services. They are educated to treat a variety of patients, including but not limited to: professional, college, secondary school and youth athletes, dancers, musicians, and military personnel. Athletic trainers are able to work in a variety of settings including schools, physician clinics, hospitals and manufacturing plants.
If my child is hurt during a practice or game, what happens?
Athletic trainers are available to provide quality health and injury care for student athletes both during games and practices. The provision of immediate care to acute injuries may have a significant impact on the reduction of repeated injuries for athletes. Proper evaluation and treatment by an athletic trainer can help ensure that your child is less likely to aggravate an existing injury if the athletic trainer’s directions are followed.
I have concerns about concussions.
By having an athletic trainer at your school, an athletic trainer will make sure proper care is provided in the case your child may sustain a concussion. Athletic trainers work directly with CPC neurologists to assess injuries by testing brain functions and cognitive control processes and balance. Together they will be able to determine when it is safe for your child to return to play. Learn more about Centegra’s Sports Concussion Program.
What if my child’s school doesn’t have an ATC?
If you have more questions, please ask our Centegra Sports Care athletic trainer.