Athletic Training & Event Coverage: Physical Therapy & Athletic Training Center

What is a Certified Athletic Trainer

Certified athletic trainers, also known as ATCs, are nationally certified medical professionals who specialize in the prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses that occur in athletes and the physically active. Athletic trainers study human anatomy and physiology, rehabilitation, biomechanics, exercise physiology, athletic training, nutrition, health, and sport psychology. In addition, athletic trainers undergo extensive training in both clinical and professional settings. To become certified, a trainer must possess a bachelor of science degree from a college or university with an accredited athletic training program and pass the written and practical components of a certification exam by an independent organization. Once certified, an ATC must complete 80 hours of continuing education every three years to maintain his/her credential.

What does an ATC do?

Athletic trainers ensure that athletes remain healthy and are able to participate in practices and games. The trainer’s primary responsibilities are injury prevention, reduction of further injury by administering immediate care, development and implementation of rehabilitation programs, and development of appropriate policies, including return-to-play.

ATCs usually work behind the scenes, but you may also see them on the sidelines at games and practices. They are often in the athletic training room, helping athletes rehabilitate following an injury. They can also be found in their offices, keeping records of medical histories and treatments or in meetings with administrators, developing policies such as emergency action plans and guidelines for responses to heat illness, lightning, and other environmental hazards.

When to see an Athletic Trainer

Your student-athlete should see the school’s ATC if:

• S/He becomes injured at anytime during her/his school sponsored sports season
• S/He requires preventative taping or bracing
• S/He has questions regarding nutrition and/or supplements
• S/He is limited in her/his play due to injury
• S/He has seen a doctor/chiropractor/physical therapist for treatment during her/his sports season
• S/He has a pre-existing injury or medical condition that may require attention

Athletic trainers will communicate directly with other medical professionals and keep coaches informed of your student-athlete’s injury status.

What Care To Expect From an Athletic Trainer

Student-athletes can expect the following care from an ATC if he or she becomes injured during practice or play.

For minor injuries (mild muscle strains, mild ligament sprains, some over-use injuries) – the student athlete will be given instructions on how to take care of the injury for the next 24 hours - i.e. Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (PRICE).

For moderate injuries (partial muscle/ligament tears, small joint dislocations, small fractures, head injuries, some over-use injuries) – the student-athlete will be given instructions on how to take care of the injury for the next 24 hours - i.e. PRICE. Parents will be notified. The athletic trainer may assist with referrals to other medical professionals.

For major injuries (major head injuries, large joint dislocations, large fractures, complete muscle/ligament tears) – the student-athlete will be given instructions on how to take care of the injury for the next 24 hours - i.e. PRICE. Parents will be notified. Emergency assistance will be contacted as needed. The athletic trainer may assist with referrals to other medical professionals. 

Additionally, athletic trainers have the option to refer student-athletes to their local Physical Therapy clinic. Partnering with the school district, Physical Therapy and Athletic Training Center will provide up to 6 physical therapy visits to the referred student-athlete at no charge. Please feel free to contact your school’s athletic trainer at any time with questions regarding your student-athlete’s injury care.

Event Coverage

Our athletic trainers are available to cover sporting events for all ages and skill levels. Please call the clinic with any questions regarding availability of coverage for your event,  (208)777-8273.