Athletic trainers are most commonly associated with the prevention and treatment of injuries to professional athletes but they are also employed by companies to administer services to industrial workers as well. Their primary responsibilities include prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries. They are recognized by the American Medical Association as allied health professionals and are normally the first health care professional at the scene of an injury. Their responsibility is to be able to accurately evaluate and assess the injury to ensure proper treatment if needed.
Athletic trainers are also trained in techniques of rehabilitation and reconditioning of injuries. This is extremely important to professional athletes and industrial workers who earn their livings by being injury free. In an attempt to prevent as many injuries as possible, athletic trainers also advise on the safety and correct use of equipment. In an attempt to minimize additional pain and breakage from existing injuries, athletic trainers also apply tape, bandages and braces. Their job is just as critical in preventing injuries as it is with treating them.
While athletic trainers are allowed to treat patients suffering from injuries, they do so under the supervision of a licensed physician or other health care providers. The level of interaction with the athletic trainer and the physician vary depending on the specific setting or environment. Many trainers work on a daily basis with the physicians while others meet once or twice a week. At times the meeting between athletic trainer and physician is necessary to discuss injuries and treatment options and other times it is necessary to meet in order to go over evaluations.
In addition to the medical services and treatments provided by the athletic trainer administrative tasks are also part of the job. Athletic trainers are also required to attend meetings on a regular basis with the athletic director or other administrative officers. The meetings typically included information on budgets, purchasing, policy implementations and other related issues that may effect the department.
It is important for athletic trainers to be in constant communication with the patients, physicians and athletic director in order to pass on relevant information. Athletic trainers who work at the high school level may also be involved in teaching. This would include more administrative tasks such as implementing a lesson plan and course schedule.
During the sports season, athletic trainers participate in the practices and games. They supervise injured players while being on the site in case of additional injuries. During the off-season they may also be involved in training camps.
