What is Athletic Therapy?
Athletic Therapy is best known for their quick-thinking on-field emergency care of professional and elite athletes. The first to respond when someone gets hurt, they are experts at injury assessment and rehabilitation. It’s that same mix of on-site care and active rehabilitation skills that makes Athletic Therapists so effective in treating the musculoskeletal (muscles, bones, and joints) injuries of all Canadians, whether on the field or in the clinic. (Source: Canadian Athletic Therapists Association)
What is an Athletic Therapist?
An Athletic Therapist can treat a wide range of patients, from kids with concussions to seniors recovering from hip replacement surgery, using various manual therapies, modalities, exercise prescription and even bracing and taping.
The scope of practice of a Certified Athletic Therapist starts with the in-depth knowledge, education and training in the areas of the human musculoskeletal system, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and basic emergency care. Within this, the scope of practice is divided into five practice domains: prevention, assessment, intervention, practice management and professional responsibility. These domains represent the core areas of competency that the CATA accredited institutions follow in educating Certification Candidates to become entry level, practicing Certified Athletic Therapists. (Source: Canadian Athletic Therapists Association)
Conditions Treated:
- Treatment for joint sprains, muscle strains, neck and back injuries
- Rehabilitation after sports injuries
- Restoring function after fractures and surgeries
- Correcting and preventing postural dysfunction and muscular imbalance
- Managing chronic conditions such as arthritis
- Treating occupational overuse injuries
- Providing ergonomics and workplace advice
- Managing neurological conditions
Techniques/Methods:
- Manual Therapy – joint and spinal mobilization
- Active Exercise – strengthening and work hardening programs
- Hydrotherapy – rehabilitation pool program
- Athletic Taping – for acute and chronic soft tissue injuries
What do Athletic Therapists do?
The Athletic Therapist, in cooperation with other members of the health care team, is an integral part of a total service to maximize individuals’ performance and welfare. The Athletic Therapist also nurtures an attitude of positive health.
A Certified Athletic Therapist utilizes contemporary rehabilitative techniques, therapeutic modalities, physical reconditioning and supportive strapping procedures to promote optimal healing and prepares the individual for safe reintegration into an active lifestyle. (Source: Ontario Athletic Therapists Association)
Do I require a Doctor’s referral to receive Athletic Therapy Treatment?
No, you do not require a Doctor’s referral to receive Athletic Therapy Treatment.
Canadian Athletic Therapists Association:
