Greetings!
At St. Francis Sports Medicine, we hope to continue to provide you with interesting and current topics in the field of sports medicine. This month we are focusing on the profession of athletic training. If there is a specific topic that you'd like to know more about, please email us or drop by our table at one of the events we are covering. |
What is a Certified Athletic Trainer?
By Kenny Cabe, ATC
March is National Athletic Training Month - but what exactly is an athletic trainer? The term "trainer" has been used to describe athletic trainers for many years. However as many other professions have developed they have also adopted the term "trainer." You have horse trainers, boxing trainers, and personal trainers just to list a few. What makes an athletic trainer (AT) different?
The certified athletic trainer is an individual who has completed a certification process by the National Athletic Trainers Association Board of Certification. This individual is specifically trained in the prevention, evaluation, care, treatment, management and rehabilitation of athletic injuries and those injuries or illnesses that are common to athletics and physical activity.
In order to become a certified athletic trainer, one must first obtain a degree from an accredited athletic training program. This may be a bachelor's degree or a master's degree, and includes both classroom and hands-on field experience. Seventy percent of certified athletic trainers hold a masters degree. After obtaining their degree, the candidate must pass a rigorous certification exam in order to claim the title of certified athletic trainer (ATC).
To learn more about the profession of athletic training or national athletic training month, visit the National Athletic Trainers Association's website.
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Ask the Expert:
John R. Vann, MD | Piedmont Orthopaedic Associates
Q
What is the importance of working
with athletic trainers?
A
"The ATC is a vital part of the health care team. They are often the first to see the patient, their expertise in assessing and evaluating the patient acutely gives the physician valuable insight into the condition. They also form relationships with patients, families, and coaches. I'm extremely impressed with their medical knowledge and experience and it is a joy working with them on the athletic field."
Learn more about Dr. Vann
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 2/20/09 | Grace Church Dodgeball Tournament |
