CAREERS

Summary
Athletic therapists provide advice regarding the prevention of sport injuries, and provide immediate care and reconditioning for musculoskeletal injuries. Athletic therapists also provide emergency, on-field and clinical care of musculoskeletal injuries for professional and recreational athletes. The goal is to facilitate a safe return to participation in sport and recreation activities. They also help athletes and active individuals prevent injury and improve their physical capabilities and active lifestyles.

Role and responsibilities

• provide rehabilitative training for occupational/sport injuries and motor vehicle accident cases
• provide personal training for weight-loss, toning and strengthening
• provide sport-specific training for amateur/recreational athletes (strength, agility, flexibility, speed)
• evaluate musculoskeletal function and posture
• recognize, assess, manage and rehabilitate musculoskeletal injuries
• plan, implement and supervise warm-up, flexibility, training and conditioning programs
• select, fit and repair equipment
• apply prophylactic or supportive taping, splinting or bracing
• provide basic emergency first aid and life support
• use physical therapy techniques (for example, massage or soft tissue mobilization) and therapeutic modalities (for example, the therapeutic use of water, cold or electricity) to recondition musculoskeletal injuries
• act as a liaison between athletes and coaches
• perform general administrative duties such as monitoring budgets and supervising staff and student therapists.

Personal and Professional Attributes

• good manual dexterity
• physical stamina
• excellent interpersonal and team work skills including sensitivity to the needs of others, patience, tact and persuasive abilities
• flexibility and the ability to think creatively
• the ability to work effectively in stressful situations.

They should enjoy working with people, designing innovative therapy programs and using equipment to implement treatment plans. Above all else, an excellent 'bench-side manner' is essential to be truly successful in this position.

Education and Experience
Athletic therapists must have a degree in athletic therapy (usually a four-year post-secondary program at an accredited college or university) and have their accreditation administered by the Canadian Athletic Therapists' Association.

Contact Information
If interested, please fax or email your resume to:

Chantalle Barkovich, President
Fax: 519-757-1018
E-mail: chantalle@kneadedcare.com