Athletic Trainers – A Holistic Approach to Sports Medicine

By Penny Nelson, ATC

The demand for board certified athletic trainers (ATCs) is at an all-time high as colleges, high schools, fitness centers, and medical centers have recognized the benefit of sports medicine rehabilitation, as well as the diet and nutrition services that are provided by ATCs.

The National Athletic Trainer's Association sets high standards for annual continuing education requirements, practice ethic, and completed work hours in the field to ensure that athletics trainers continue to advance their skills and hold a respected place in the medical and education communities.

Universities, community colleges and high schools have come to recognize the benefit of an on-site sports medicine program that educates the athletic staff and athletes on all aspects of strengthening and conditioning, injury prevention and treatment, and diet and nutrition. The sports medicine staff consists of a team physician, student athletic trainers, and a director of sports medicine. This team works together to assesses the needs of athletes, perform medical exams, and treat injuries immediately to ensure that the athletes heal and return to their sport activity in the most efficient type of treatment program.

Outpatient physical therapy and physician offices benefit from the ATC's expertise in manual therapy, injury rehabilitation, body mechanic training, and diet and nutrition programs. An ATC's job duties are often divided between the medical clinic and high school sports medicine programs.

An ever-increasing number of athletic trainers have acquired advanced education and medical certifications in holistic medical fields that allow them to practice independently and provide the same professional services to the general public without a physician's referral. This is a huge benefit to the general public, who did not previously have direct access to these services. Now, more than ever, people have become more aware of how the healing arts that can enhance their overall health, and they are searching for athletic trainers to provide expert medical services.

About the author:
Penny Nelson has been a board certified athletic trainer (ATC) with the National Athletic Trainer's Association since 1988. She is a graduate of Ferris State University with a B.S. in applied biology, and a B.S. and board certification in sports medicine. Penny also holds certifications in the medical areas of massage and bodyworks, reflexology, and personal training. She is co-owner of Grand Traverse Physical Therapy and owner of Equine Sports Medicine and Myofascial Release Therapy, which specializes in body work for the equine and canine population.

For more information, please call Grand Traverse Physical Therapy at 231.941.6500 or email us.