What is a Certified Athletic Therapist?

** By Kevin Quinn, Certified Athletic Therapist

Picture: Our very own Kevin on the field as part of Duquesne football’s sports medicine team, an elite-level American Football team, during his time in Pittsburgh, USA.

Last month we marked International Athletic Therapy and Training Day. In honour of this occasion, our dedicated Certified Athletic Therapist, Kevin Quinn, has written this article to shed light on the role of Athletic Therapists in enhancing overall function and performance in both the general and sporting population.

What do Athletic Therapists do?

Certified Athletic Therapists are healthcare professionals who specialise in the assessment, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries. While their title implies a focus on athletes, it's essential to note that athletic therapists are equally adept at helping both athletic and non-athletic populations recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and enhance their overall well-being.

Education

After completion of a 4-year BSc degree in Athletic Therapy and Training at Dublin City University (DCU), Athletic Therapists must sit the ARTI exam to gain their certification status. ARTI is the governing body of Athletic Therapists in Ireland and is affiliated with the World Federation of Athletic Therapy and Training.

So, here’s a closer look at what Certified Athletic Therapists do:

• Injury Assessment: Assessment and diagnosis of injuries pertaining to the MSK system.

• Rehabilitation: Develop detailed and customized rehabilitation programs to help individuals regain strength, mobility, and function. They use various modalities, exercises, and manual techniques to facilitate the recovery process.

• Concussion Management: Certified Athletic Therapists are one of the leading healthcare professionals in the management and rehabilitation of concussion injuries.

• Immediate Care: Trained and hold qualifications in emergency and cardiac first response under the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council of Ireland. As such, certified athletic therapists are often the first responders on the sports field.

What's the difference between Athletic Therapy and Physiotherapy?

Although the two professions are very similar in their scope of practice, Certified Athletic Therapists primarily specialise in musculoskeletal-related injuries, and exercise-based rehabilitation.

In addition to MSK, Physiotherapists have a broader scope of practice which extends to neurological, cardiovascular, and respiratory conditions.

Is the treatment provided by Certified Athletic Therapists covered under my insurance policy?

Treatment provided by Certified Athletic Therapists registered under ARTI is covered by the following health insurers:

* Laya Healthcare

* Irish Life

* Vigo Health

What to do next…

At Rehab Rooms we believe that successful treatment is down to accurate diagnosis and assessment, which leads to successful treatment outcomes.

Whether you're recovering from an injury or seeking to improve your physical well-being, certified athletic therapists like Kevin are here to help you regain your optimal function and enhance your overall quality of life. So, why not book in?

Simply send us an email at info@rehabrooms.i , give us a call to book a session on 01 430 5634 or click here to book an appointment at a time that suits you.