Athletic Trainers (ATs) are a key member of the sports medicine team. It’s especially important to have athletic trainers on the athletic field because they have the specialized training to take care of the unique needs of athletes. When the rubber hits the road, there is nobody better to be taking care of athletes on a day-to-day basis than an athletic trainer. Take a look below at why this is the case as we discuss the Domains of Athletic Training.
Injury and Illness Prevention and Wellness Promotion
ATs are trained to identify risk factors in the athletic and general populations through specialized assessment methods, and are able to help reduce risk of injury by utilizing techniques such as taping, bracing, rehabilitation exercises, fitness/conditioning programs, altering environmental factors, and others. ATs are also advocates for health through education to optimize wellness for individuals and groups.
Examination, Assessment and Diagnosis
ATs are trained to take a thorough history, and to perform a detailed examination of athletic injuries. Armed with an extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and injury mechanism, ATs can come to a confident diagnosis utilizing advanced techniques such as observation, palpation and special tests. They can also determine a course of evidence-based treatment based off of their examination.
Immediate and Emergency Care
When an athlete goes down, Athletic Trainers are specially-trained to respond appropriately. They design site-specific emergency action plans, and communicate with local emergency staff to facilitate optimal care for any emergent needs which may arise. ATs are prepared to assess for potentially serious or life-threatening conditions, implement emergency strategies and refer to appropriate healthcare professionals when appropriate.
Therapeutic Intervention
Athletic trainers employ several techniques to intervene on a patient’s behalf. They utilize hands-on (manual) techniques, therapeutic exercises and therapeutic devices to facilitate recovery and optimize function and performance. Athletic trainers also educate and communicate with patients, parents, and other healthcare providers as needed in order to maximize communication between medical disciplines. As athletic trainers have a unique scope of practice, they are able to recognize when other interventions are needed, and refer accordingly for the overall betterment of the patient.
Healthcare Administration and Professional Responsibility
Athletic trainers measure and predict outcomes of their patients, as well as their sports medicine programs. They stay up-to-date with evidence-based practices and utilize the techniques which are most effective to optimize those outcomes. In order to maintain their certification and license, they are required to continue their education this year by acquiring continuing education units (CEUs). They also develop appropriate documentation procedures, policies and administrative procedures to ensure their programs are organized, effective and efficient.
Athletic trainers are an absolutely vital part of the sports medicine team. If your school or youth sports program doesn’t have an athletic trainer, it’s important to develop strategies in order to acquire one for coverage on a regular basis, so that the safety of your athletes are in the best hands they can be.