Athletic Trainers specialize in health care for the physically active. A certified athletic trainer (ATC) can provide the following care:

• Prevention of injuries
• Recognition, evaluation, and immediate care of injuries
• Rehabilitation and reconditioning of injuries

Whether the person is a competitive high school or collegiate athlete, a factory worker, a recreational softball player, or an avid walker, the certified athletic trainer (ATC) provides a comprehensive rehabilitation program to return the person to his or her previous level of activity. As part of a complete healthcare team, the ATC works under the direction of a licensed physician and in cooperation with other health care workers, athletic administrators, coaches, and parents.

Specifically the ATC specializes in five practice areas or domains:

• Prevention of athletic injuries
• Recognition, evaluation, and immediate care of athletic injuries
• Rehabilitation and reconditioning of athletic injuries
• Health care and administration
• Professional development

The ATC uses a wide range of therapeutic modalities to reduce pain and inflammation after an injury. An individually designed program is used to enhance flexibility and restore muscle strength and endurance. A sports specific program with functional testing is performed with each athlete to determine readiness for return to play. The ATC is knowledgeable in the use of taping, bracing, and custom-made padding to protect the athlete.

At Holzer Clinic, all of our ATC's are nationally certified and licensed by the State of Ohio to practice athletic training. All certified athletic trainers have received a bachelor's degree, with about 70% of the members of the National Athletic Trainers Association having received a master's degree.

Holzer Clinic's ATC's play an important role in the education of coaches, athletes, parents, and others in the area of sports, health, and safety. The staff conducts certification workshops for coaches and educational in-services for community organizations.

In affiliation with Ohio University, Holzer Clinic provides masters level certified athletic trainers to area high schools. These trainers work at the high school on a daily basis to cover practices and competitions, providing immediate, professional, quality health care to the scholastic athlete.