WHAT IS AN ATHLETIC THERAPIST?

Scope of practice

The Scope of Practice of a Certified Athletic Therapist includes the prevention, immediate care, and reconditioning of musculoskeletal injuries. Prevention includes musculoskeletal and postural evaluation, equipment selection, fitting and repair, warm-up, conditioning programs, prophylactic or supportive taping, and adapting to the activity environment and facilities.

A Certified Athletic Therapist assesses injuries and conditions, uses contemporary rehabilitative techniques, therapeutic modalities, soft tissue mobilization, physical reconditioning, and supportive procedures to promote an environment conductive to optimal healing in preparing the individual for sage reintegration into an active lifestyle.

What Do We treat?

Athletic Therapists treat a wide range of injuries and conditions, including, but not limited to the following:

  • Sports injuries
  • Back and Neck Pain
  • Headaches
  • Musculoskeletal disorders
  • Shoulder/elbow/wrist/hand pain
  • Hip/knee/ankle/foot pain
  • Poor posture
  • Chronic pain
  • Repetitive strain injuries
  • Work related injuries
  • MVA Injuries
  • Adolescent injuries & growth conditions
  • Loss of mobility

Education

In addition to completing a bachelors degree, Athletic Therapists must complete the Athletic Therapy program at one of only 7 accredited education institutions in Canada, including 1200 hours of on-field and in-clinic practical hours, and also acquire a valid first responder certificate. Finally, candidates must successfully pass the written and practical portions of CATA’s National Certification Exam. 

Once certified, candidates receive the title "Certified Athletic Therapist - CAT(C)" and are required to:

  • Present annual documentation demonstrating continued education
  • Maintain professional liability insurance coverage
  • Maintain their CPR/HCP certification
  • Adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct 

All Certified Athletic Therapists are members of the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (CATA) and are qualified to use the credential CAT(C).