Celebrating National Athletic Training Month: The Vital Role of Athletic Trainers at OAW
March is National Athletic Training Month, a time to recognize the dedicated professionals who play a crucial role in injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. While many people associate athletic trainers (ATCs) with sports teams, their expertise extends far beyond the sidelines. At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin (OAW), we’re proud to have highly trained athletic trainers working in multiple patient care areas, from assisting physicians to guiding rehabilitation.
What is Athletic Training?
Athletic training is a healthcare profession specializing in the prevention, examination, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions. ATCs are trained to provide hands-on care in emergencies, assist in recovery, and educate patients about injury prevention. Their skills make them valuable assets not only in sports but also in clinical and hospital settings.
Education and Certification of Athletic Trainers
Becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) requires extensive education and training, including:
- A Bachelor's or Master’s Degree in Athletic Training from an accredited program.
- Clinical Rotations to gain hands-on experience in various settings, including sports teams, hospitals, and rehabilitation clinics.
- Board Certification through the Board of Certification (BOC) for the Athletic Trainer.
- Continuing Education to maintain certification and stay updated on best practices in sports medicine and injury care.
This comprehensive education prepares ATCs to work alongside healthcare professionals in various environments—including right here at OAW.
How OAW Utilizes Athletic Trainers in Patient Care
At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, we recognize the versatility of athletic trainers and integrate them into multiple departments to enhance patient care. Our ATCs work in several key roles:
1. Medical Assistants in Clinic
Many of our ATCs serve as medical assistants, working closely with physicians during patient visits. Their background in injury evaluation, bracing, and rehabilitation allows them to assist with patient education, casting, splinting, and post-operative care.
2. Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Experts
Athletic trainers at OAW play a critical role in our DME department, helping patients get properly fitted for braces, crutches, and other supportive devices. Their understanding of biomechanics ensures that each patient receives the right support for a safe recovery.
3. Physical Therapy Department Support
With a deep knowledge of rehabilitation, ATCs also collaborate with physical therapists to assist with patient treatment plans. Their experience in injury prevention and movement mechanics makes them valuable in guiding patients through exercise programs and post-surgical recovery.
4. Physician Assistants with ATC Backgrounds
Several of our Physician Assistants (PAs) started their careers as athletic trainers before advancing their education in medicine. This foundation gives them a unique perspective when diagnosing and treating injuries, making them even more effective.
The Impact of ATCs on Patient Care
At OAW, we see firsthand how athletic trainers improve patient outcomes by combining their knowledge of sports medicine, rehabilitation, and orthopaedics. Whether helping a high school athlete return to play, assisting in post-surgical recovery, or fitting a brace for a patient with a chronic condition, ATCs are a vital part of our healthcare team.
This National Athletic Training Month, we celebrate our dedicated ATCs and their contributions to keeping our patients healthy, active, and pain-free. Thank you for all you do!