1. Sports Medicine Careers Introduction to all the careers involved in Sports Medicine

2. Sports Medicine The study and application of scientific and mental knowledge to aspects of exercise and injury prevention. The multidisciplinary approach to health care for those seriously involved in exercise and sport. Promotes health and fitness while preventing, treating and rehabilitating injuries First Recognized in the twentieth century Cared for injured military veterans True sports medicine specialists have training that allows them to treat athletic injuries.

3. Athlete’s Circle of Care All individuals involved in the care of an athlete. Vitally important in the holistic approach to athletic health care Certified Athletic Trainers rely on many health professionals to help treat their athletes. Illustrates the team approach to the care of the athlete There needs to be good communication between the coach, athlete, and certified athletic trainer Parents should be actively engaged in the prevention and treatment of the injuries

5. Family and Team Doctor Team doctor: specializes in sports medicine and helps the athlete maximize their function and minimize the time away from sports. Family doctor: primary physician in the care of the athlete. Family doctor has athlete’s complete medical history on file. Team doctor and family doctor work hand in hand for the treatment and care of an injured athlete Team doctors may be involved in a primary specialty and have a one to two year fellowship in sports medicine.

6. Physician Assistant Works interdependently with a physician to provide diagnostic and therapeutic care. Originated in the 1960s at Duke University Dr. Stead believed that mid-level practitioners could increase consumer access to health services by extending the time and skills of the physician

7. Duties: ◦ Take patient histories ◦ Perform physical examinations ◦ Order laboratory and diagnostic studies ◦ Develop patient treatment plans Many PA’s work in a sports medicine/team doctor office.

8. Physical Therapist Originally called restorative aids and provided care during WW1 Specializes in a wide variety of areas in addition to sports medicine. They are responsible for performing treatments that require special training in therapeutic exercises, hydrotherapy and electrotherapy.

9. Work in a variety of settings: ◦ Hospitals ◦ Nursing homes ◦ Schools ◦ Outpatient clinics ◦ Fitness facilities ◦ Home environments

10. Physical Therapist Assistant Work along with physical therapists Development of treatment plans and documenting the progress of treatments while making modifications to treatment plans Not responsible for initial evaluation but note patient’s responses to treatment and report them to the PT

11. Both PTs and PTAs work along side other members of sports medicine team to improve athlete’s: ◦ Movement ◦ Function ◦ Relieve pain ◦ Expand mobility potential

12. Chiropractor Health care specialist who provides conservative management of neuromuscular disorders and functional clinical conditions Provide spinal manipulations and adjustments of articulations to promote body’s natural healing process

13. Massage therapist One of the oldest methods for relief of pain and reducing stress Started in China and spread to Europe. Taught by Hippocrates who believed all physicians should be trained They work with physicians, nurses, and physical therapists Used during WW1 and WW2 during rehabilitation This is a growing profession

14. Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)/Personal Trainer(NSCA- CPT) Specialist who designs and implements safe and effective strength and conditioning programs A personal trainer has actual clients A CSCS works with athletes conditioning and strength training A personal trainer works with clients in: ◦ Schools ◦ Health and fitness clubs ◦ Client’s house

15. Sports Nutritionist Healthcare specialist who designs special diets with the goal of enhancing athletic performance. Informs athletes about eating properly and instructs them on supplements and dietary aids. Bottom line... Proper diet can result in better performance

16. Sports Psychologist Specialist who works with athletes to recover from serious injury through emotional support. Two tools they use are goal setting and imagery Can be found in: ◦ Clinical settings ◦ Educational institutes ◦ Private practices ◦ Professional sports teams ◦ Olympic medalists Can work through emotional trauma or keep athlete motivated within a chosen sport.