Athletic Therapy Jenn Dunn works on a patient.June happens to be National Athletic Therapy month, so what better topic to write about than the exciting profession that is Athletic Therapy?

Have you ever been watching sports when someone got injured and been curious about the unfolding chain of events? That first person to run onto the field of play is often an athletic therapist.

Athletic therapists have a unique skill set that allows them to provide emergency care for injuries and medical emergencies at sporting events, as well as clinical assessment and treatment skills to see their patients through the course of healing.

With AT’s often being the first on-site, they are highly trained in concussion identification and rapid decision making for injuries. They specialize in working with athletic populations and for that reason they tend to have a strong foundation in rehabilitative exercise. They use a wide variety of manual therapy techniques for soft tissue and joints, as well and electrical and thermal modalities when required.

Many athletic therapists are fortunate to have team of medical professionals that they can consult and collaborate with to ensure patients are returning to play as soon as they possibly can. Athletic therapy patients range from weekend warriors to professional athletes and Olympians.

The services we provide include:

  • Massage, myofascial release, soft tissue release, joint mobilizations.
  • Electrotherapeutic modalities including interferential current therapy, ultrasound and muscle stimulation.
  • Pre- and post-operative care.
  • Strength and conditioning for injury prevention, rehabilitation and performance.
  • Pilates for spinal rehabilitation.
  • Concussion management including assessment, treatment and return to play.
  • Baseline concussion testing.
  • Access to physicians and sport psychologists through MacEwan University Health Centre.

MacEwan University Sport and Wellness offers Athletic Therapy services to Griffins athletes, student, staff and pubic patrons. MacEwan students and staff, plus many benefits plans cover Athletic Therapy.

Happy athletic therapy month everyone!

by Jenn Dunn