ATHLETIC THERAPY

Athletic therapy is a health care profession that specializes in prevention, emergency care, assessment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries (muscles, joints, ligaments, bones). Following a sport medicine model of care, an Athletic Therapist utilizes contemporary rehabilitation methods including manual therapies, therapeutic modalities, corrective exercise, physical reconditioning, taping and bracing in order to accelerate an individual’s return to pre-injury status. Many people may recognize an Athletic Therapist as the person on the sidelines with professional sports teams that will respond to emergency situations on the court, field or ice. Athletic Therapists can however work in a variety of settings.

The certification process for an Athletic Therapist involves completion of a Bachelors Degree program at one of seven accredited post secondary institutions in Canada. Candidates also must complete 1200 hours of on-field and clinical practical training and obtain a First Responder Certification. Once qualified, Candidates can attempt the National Certification Exam which includes a comprehensive written and practical exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, Candidates receive the title Certified Athletic Therapist, designated in Canada by the letters CAT(C).

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ATHLETIC THERAPY

What is the certification process for an athletic therapist (AT)?

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