Member Resource Library

In addition to understanding the efficacy of all cannabinoids, as well as any potential benefits and side effects, it is imperative that the athletic trainer recognizes that the application of a cannabis-based product, whether natural or synthetically-derived, lends itself to a likelihood of modifying the way other pharmaceuticals act within the body.

In the absence of standardized regulation of cannabis & cannabinoid products, it is important for athletic trainers to recognize methods that can assist with product evaluation. One method is to review a product’s certificate of analysis (COA).

Cannabis & cannabinoids can be taken/used/administered in a variety of ways. Here is a brief description of the most common modes of application. Athletic trainers are encouraged to seek out more information regarding specific modes of application that may be more relevant to a specific patient population or practice setting.

Below is a summary of the legality of cannabis in select countries that may be frequented by athletic trainers. This is a sampling of countries and one should always look up the laws of each country, state, and/or region for the most current information to include, but not limited to, prescription, possession, consumption, cultivation, and travel regulations. This is especially important since rules and regulations surrounding cannabis change frequently. This page will be updated as well as information becomes available.

The NATA Education Advancement Committee (EAC) has compiled a list of resources regarding artificial intelligence (AI) as it relates to higher education. This isn’t an exhaustive list, nor does it represent the views or values of NATA. The intention is to provide educators with hyperlinked resources and a brief description of each to help guide their use of the list

A glossary of cannabis-related terms.

Athletic trainers’ knowledge of current federal, state, county, and local rules and regulations is continually changing and requires program educators and clinicians to stay current on the latest information to provide the best possible healthcare to physically active individuals.

A four page document that outlines the roles and responsibilities of the United States' Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as it relates to the use of cannabis.

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (USDEA) regulates all drugs and classifies them according to the Controlled Substance Act (Title 21 of the US Code) which places a drug in one of five categories based upon a substance’s medical use, potential for abuse, and safety or dependence liability.

2700 BC: Chinese Emperor, Shen-Nung, lists cannabis as being useful for more than 100 ailments, including rheumatism, constipation, and gynecological disorders.

This is an excel spreadsheet of various associations, organizations and councils and their respective position statements and journal articles on the use of cannabis in health care and sports medicine.

In general, athletic trainers are advised against traveling in possession of cannabis-related products until regulations become clearer and afford certain protections. The following information is provided should an athletic trainer consider traveling with cannabis and have approval from one’s directing physician.

The means by which cannabis derivatives (e.g. cannabinoids) can exert their effects on the human body involves the endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signaling network that involves neural, immune, enzyme-driven, and other physiologic processes.

The use of cannabis derivatives for medicinal purposes and therapeutic potential have been heavily researched over the past several years due to changes in societal and cultural norms. It is the duty of the athletic trainer to be able to educate their patient/athlete and understand the medicinal benefits, the long and short-term side effects, and the associated risks of the use of cannabinoids. It should be noted that utilizing cannabinoids for medicinal and therapeutic benefits should be discussed with a licensed physician prior to initiating treatment.

Revenue models contain information that will help ATs maintain and improve their positions by quantifying their worth to the organization. Revenue models include: Secondary School Value Model, College/University Value Model, Physician Practice Value Model and the Public Safety Value Model.