Athletic Trainers Work Injuries Certification Eslpod People Professional

Overview

Athletic trainers specialize in "preventing" (keeping from happening), "diagnosing" (identifying the problem or illness), and "treating" (giving medical care to improve) muscle and bone injuries and illnesses. They work with people of all ages, from young children to "soldiers" (people whose job is in the military) and professional athletes. They follow instructions from doctors and other healthcare providers.

Athletic trainers are usually one of the first healthcare providers "on the scene" (at the location) when injuries occur. With a doctor, they often discuss specific injuries and treatment options or "evaluate" (examine to reach a decision) and treat patients. Some athletic trainers meet with a team of "physicians" (doctors) regularly.

Many athletic trainers work in educational facilities, such as high schools and colleges. Others may work in doctors' offices or for professional sports teams. Some athletic trainers work in "rehabilitation" (course of treatment done to return one to normal health and activity) clinics, in the military, or with "performing artists" (people who perform in the arts, such as dancers). They may spend much of their time working outdoors on sports fields in all types of weather.

Education, Training, and Certification

Athletic trainers need at least a bachelor's degree, although both bachelor's and master's degrees are common. In most states, athletic trainers need a "license" (piece of paper stating one's qualifications) or "certification" (permission given after passing an exam or satisfying the requirements), although specific requirements "vary" ( are different) by state.

Nearly all states require athletic trainers to be certified. The independent Board of Certification (BOC) offers the standard certification examination that most states use to give licenses.