Athletic Training

An Athletic Trainer (AT) is a certified healthcare professional who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions affecting physically active individuals. Working in close collaboration with physicians, these professionals are found in a wide range of environments, including high schools, colleges, professional sports teams, hospitals, and orthopedic clinics. Athletic training is recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA), Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as an allied health care profession. Their scope of practice is broad, encompassing everything from the management of acute sprains and concussions to the long-term treatment of chronic conditions. Unlike coaches or personal trainers, Athletic Trainers hold specific medical certifications and are recognized as vital healthcare providers who bridge the gap between athletes, doctors, and coaching staffs.

The daily responsibilities of an AT are centered on comprehensive patient care. This begins with injury prevention through techniques like taping, bracing, and the education of safe physical practices. When injuries do occur, they provide immediate emergency care and first aid, followed by a clinical assessment and the application of therapeutic interventions. Beyond initial treatment, they develop and guide specialized rehabilitation programs to return patients to full function. Throughout this process, they serve as educators and advocates, advising parents and coaches on health matters while coordinating with physical therapists and specialists to ensure a seamless recovery.

Becoming an Athletic Trainer requires a rigorous academic and professional commitment. Candidates must graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE); while this was historically a bachelor’s degree, the profession has transitioned to requiring a master’s degree for entry-level practice. To earn their credentials, individuals must pass the comprehensive Board of Certification (BOC) exam. Once certified, they are licensed or regulated in all 50 states, ensuring they meet the high clinical standards necessary to provide medical care in their communities. Virginia requires Athletic Trainers to be Licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine.

The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) oversees the curriculum standards of all accredited Professional (entry level) and all the institutions. The standards dictate the content of both didactic and clinical practice portions of the educational program. Content areas include:

• Risk Management and Injury Prevention
• Pathology of Injuries and Illnesses
• Orthopedic Clinical Examination and Assessment
• Medical Conditions and Disabilities
• Acute Care of Injuries and Illnesses
• Therapeutic Modalities
• Conditioning and Rehabilitative Exercises
• Psychosocial Intervention and Referral
• Nutritional Aspects of Injuries and Illnesses
• Healthcare Administration
• Professional Development and Responsibility
• Healthcare Professional Development and Responsibility