NATA Now

By Tamara C. Valovich McLeod, PhD, ATC, FNATA, Professor and Director, Athletic Training Programs, John P. Wood D.O. Endowed Chair for Sports Medicine Research Professor, School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona A.T. Still University

The NATA Public Relations Committee has developed targeted PR packages to assist ATs with promoting the profession and connecting with external stakeholders during National Athletic Training Month (NATM).

A recent high profile sexual abuse and misconduct case in athletics and a subsequent bill that details new reporting requirements, passed in both the U.S. House and Senate, have prompted many organizations to take action to help protect others from these types of horrific and unconscionable actions.

Exertional rhabdomyolysis, an excessive breakdown of muscle fiber during physical activity, is a dangerous health and safety issue – and one that is preventable. To shine a light on exertional rhabdomyolysis, NCAA Chief Medical Officer Brian Hainline, MD, has issued guidelines that athletic trainers can use to prevent this life-threatening occurrence from taking place.

Build relationships with other local health care professionals.

The January NATA News featured an article by the Transition to Practice Workgroup, detailing its findings in relation to helping athletic trainers successfully transition into the field of their employment. The article discussed various aspects of transitioning to practice and recommendations for the individual, employer and professional education program.

By Timothy Neal, MS, ATC, CCISM

By Chase Paulson, MS, ATC

By Amanda Donahue, MS, ATC

By Brian Murray, Go4Ellis