tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89466478779864165252024-03-12T19:14:46.989-05:00SWATA Young ProfessionalsA forum for young professionals in the Southwest Athletic Trainers' AssociationTiffany McGuffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06098239241424015884noreply@blogger.comBlogger188125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-16252241273742845762015-06-03T09:54:00.001-05:002015-06-03T09:54:33.052-05:00Motivation by Carrie Saulters<div class="MsoNormal">
As the end of the year or season comes around what keeps you
motivated to keep coming back every year? It is easy to point out that almost
every athletic trainer puts in a lot of hours and can easily feel “burnt out”,
but what makes it all worth it?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I recently had this
conversation with another athletic trainer and we decided that what helps us
the most is remembering why we picked the field of athletic training in the
first place and holding on to the feelings of those you have helped. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everyone has a different reason for choosing the field of
athletic training. I have heard stories from others about being injured while
they were in high school, college or they just had a passion for helping people
and loving sports. An athletic trainer somewhere made a difference in their
lives. Try to think of that when you are
winding down at the end of a season. The athlete you are treating still
deserves your very best and you may ignite a passion for the field of athletic
training in them, like you once felt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We also decided that reflecting on the thank you phone calls
or emails from students or parents can help ease the burden of working so many
hours at the end of the season or year. We also discussed that not everyone has
a positive work environment, so it may be up to you to set that tone. Show your
co-workers that you have enthusiasm for your job and your athletes and you will
set a positive example. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-19440381307487749162015-05-19T19:01:00.003-05:002015-05-19T19:01:47.681-05:00Emotional Resilience by Michelle Holt<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.65pt; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
In a recent survey that I came across, emotional resilience was defined
as is the ability to positively adjust to an adverse, stressful, or difficult
situations and maintain one’s good mental health. The goal of this
survey was to understand emotional resilience of athletic trainers and the
factors that may contribute to emotional resiliency in different workplace
settings. This is really important for each individual to question, and I
believe handling confrontation is a one of those factors.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of my personal strengths (Gallup’s <u>Strengths Finder
2.</u>0 by Tom Rath) is harmony. I LOVE when people put aside differences to
harmonize or at least cooperate in life and work, making the positive results
that much greater. I used to steer clear of confrontation thinking that it
hurts harmony, and I confused it as creating conflict rather than finding a
solution to the problem. Before I was mature enough to learn, I struggled in a
work environment that was full of it, crumbling emotionally instead of rising
to my potential. I also experienced a work environment that was the other side
of the spectrum where confrontation was avoided so much in the culture that
there was a huge lack of accountability. In this situation, accountability
would be necessary for making progress. So, it was ton of effort to make the
wheels spin but we were still going nowhere. After different stages of learning
the hard way, I see and accept confrontation as an opportunity to build harmony
and as a leadership skill that is vital to hold your team together through
accountability.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I bring this topic up because I think that in any job the
right fit for someone has a lot more to do with this aspect of emotional
resilience. Think about emotional resilience as it relates to how you interact
with others, but also how the environment (mainly the people) allow you to
maintain a healthy mental state. People around you have different skill levels
and methods keeping the emotional balance. What do you need and what do you
need to do to positively impact your work and life environment?<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-84591364811357876982015-05-14T20:08:00.001-05:002015-05-14T20:08:13.698-05:00ATs hosting secondary school PPE’s<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s that time of year again for secondary school ATs. The medical
eligibility paperwork process for next year is in full swing. Since we just wrapped
up hosting our own physical exam night, I have PPE’s on my mind. All the hard
work and preparation my worker and I did in advance kept things going as
smoothly as it could have gone…even despite the doctors showing up late or
cancelling last minute. But, when it was all said and done I couldn’t help but
question, why do all this?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had a simple but specific process in place to have our
high school and middle school students sign up for our physical exams. We had
been planning, communicating with coaches and pushing out the broadcast in many
different ways for weeks leading up to our event. Still, the final result of
numbers was more than disappointing. We had such a small percentage of our
student athletes that needed physicals actually take advantage of what we
offered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We do this for a few benefits, primarily being cheap and
convenient for busy parents and athletes. The goal of hosting PPE’s is to help complete
a significant portion of our population’s medical paperwork requirements in a
timely manner. It is also a benefit to have our high quality physicians
helping. Then we as athletic trainers are immediately aware of the “red flag”
positive medical findings and are able to address the next steps with the
parents in a timely manner.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After all our efforts of communication, we still didn’t have
the back-up we needed from the coaches to get the kids/parents to sign up. For
many, following instructions to complete the sign-up was a struggle. Regardless
of how many actually come, we put the same amount of time and effort into the
details of orchestrating and setting up the event. The nicest way to sum up our
event was a BIG hassle with very little outcome. On top of it all there are now
many local clinics that offer “cheap and easy” sports physical exams with
extended night and weekend hours available. Parents often jump to these options
anyways. So, it brings me to ask, was it really worth it? Do we do this again
next year? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Consistent with the recommendations of the NATA’s Safe
Sports School Award (link below, check it out!!), I feel athletic trainers are
responsible to coordinate PPE’s. However, we do this as we communicate to
parents how to fulfill the PPE requirements and as we diligently collect the
paperwork to ensure that each athlete has completed this and has the necessary
medical information on file. From my perspective this does not mean that we are
not adequately doing our jobs if we do not host a physical exam event at our
school. If you’re a secondary school AT have you had similar struggle hosting
PPE’s? Do you feel pressure to provide physicals at your school?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
http://www.nata.org/sites/default/files/SafeSportSchoolAwardPacket.pdf<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-71278364061934985342015-05-06T20:15:00.002-05:002015-05-06T20:15:06.321-05:00District VI memories <div class="MsoNormal">
Recently, SWATA announced the election results, and welcomed
Chris Hall as the new district director.
We also saw Valerie Hairston named to her second term as the
Member-At-Large, and Lorna Strong as the Eddie Wojeki recipient. What an awesome group of candidates and award
winners!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had the pleasure of working as a student under Chris Hall
at TCU. He has such a passion for the
profession, and his love for the work we do truly shows. Texas and Arkansas have been able to do so
many things on both the state and local level, and I look forward to everything
that we will do in the future. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we creep towards the July meeting, I wanted to take some
time to reflect on all the work Kathy Dieringer has done as the District VI
director. During the 2014 convention,
Kathy asked the Young Professionals’ Committee to tackle the NPI contest. The YP’s teamed up with the PR, CUATC, and
COPA committees to increase both awareness and on-site NPI registrations. As committee chair, I was thankful for Kathy
reaching out and trusting me with this initiative. I know there are many stories out there just
like mine- District VI what are some of your memories of working alongside
Kathy? <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-76075246138823303252015-04-23T12:29:00.000-05:002015-04-23T12:29:02.969-05:00Current Events by Kimber Rodgers<div class="MsoNormal">
There have been a lot of legislative initiatives
recently. Many of which will affect
athletic trainers. There are some others
that will also affect teachers in the public schools. If you are a secondary school athletic
trainer, like me, you could possibly be affected by all of these.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This has definitely opened my eyes to several things! I will admit, in the past, when I receive an
e-blast from NATA or SWATA I usually read the subject line then delete it. After becoming more involved and becoming a
member of the Young Professionals’ Committee, I have made a conscious effort to
read all of the communication I receive.
I never realized what I had been missing out on! There is so much information conveyed in
those e-blasts!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently, a friend of mine got a new job, and when
discussing salary with his employers, they used the NATA salary survey “like it
was the Bible.” However, a majority of
athletic trainers licensed and certified did not participate in the
survey. How will we get an accurate
picture of the profession as a whole if we, the members, are not willing to
provide our input?<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-87883552740710724012015-04-20T11:09:00.003-05:002015-04-20T11:09:53.753-05:00Job Strategies for the Young Professional: A Brief Interview with Chris Young. By: Kimber Rodgers<br />
Recently, I spoke with Chris Young, a colleague and classmate from graduate school. He has had several unique job experiences so far in his athletic training career; working as an intern for the Oakland Raiders and the Phillies organization, with US Soccer, an assistant and head athletic trainer at a NCAA Division I university, and in a clinical setting as an outreach coordinator. So I asked how he has gotten to where he is and what advice he might offer to other young professionals. Here is what he had to say:<br />
<br />
Me: What has made you able to obtain the positions you’ve had?<br />
Chris: A lot of it was that I was in the right place at the right time. There were a lot of times where I just worked hard and did some of the grunt work and put in my time doing the not so fun stuff. I didn’t really realize that people were paying attention. I didn’t think I was doing anything special; I was just doing what they taught us in school. But, people were paying attention and thought I was doing a good job. So it was partially “right-place-right-time”, but I feel like I worked hard to prove that I was good enough. A lot of it is just work ethic.<br />
<br />
Me: Do you think that the people that you have met while in those different positions have helped you?<br />
Chris: The big thing that [our professor] taught us is to never burn a bridge. So, I’ve tried really, really hard. You know, there’s times where you have to bite your tongue. There’s times when your day just sucks but you just have to grin and bear it and do what you’ve got to do to hold up your end of the deal. For me, fortunately, it worked out to where it turned into some things that were bigger and better than where I was at before.<br />
<br />
Me: So do you think it was the other athletic trainers you’ve met that have helped you, or the coaches you’ve worked with? Who do you think has really helped you along the way?<br />
Chris: I think it’s been a good sampling of everything. I really attribute a lot to the connections I’ve<br />
made. You know, the athletic training world is really small. Just trying to stay connected with people; because, as you move on and leave a place, that’s just another connection. I think the people I’ve worked with or worked for, I was just fortunate to be with, even if it was just a short time in that setting. So, you just work hard and stay connected to them. Then, when there’s something you want to do, you reach out to them and say, “Hey, I don’t know if you know anybody but…” and if you do enough job they’ll stick their neck out for you.<br />
<br />
Me: What are some things that you’ve learned that were not so good, that may have been disadvantages of the different settings you’ve been and what have you learned from that?<br />
Chris: One of the worst relationships I’ve had with an administrator is when I just wasn’t respected. I was young and probably had no business having that job and they knew it, so they told me about it. I had a really hard time with that. I may have been a little more vocal than I should have been, but there are definitely some things I could have done differently.<br />
<br />
Me: So, did that experience change and shape how you did things in your next position?<br />
Chris: Something I didn’t do that I should have done, and I will make sure to do going forward, is the very first thing to do when I get to a new setting is I’ll sit down with the coach or athletic director and say, “What are your expectations of me?” Then we’ll have a conversation of what it is they expect from me. And I’ll tell them what I expect on the athletic training side. Communication and respect are big things. If I had done that, it probably would’ve changed things. Communication is so important! And you have no idea who is watching.<br />
<br />
Me: What advice would you give to young professionals, that are just starting to look for jobs, or those who are looking to work in a new setting? What advice would you give them that is maybe something you wish you would have known right out of school?<br />
Chris: I started an internship position, hoping that they may have a full-time position at the end of the summer. But they didn’t, so I was scrambling to find something. But all I found was another internship. I remember calling home at one point and I was so frustrated and said, “I am always going to be the professional intern! This is not why I went to grad school.” And my dad said, go ahead and stick it out and see how it goes. That eventually turned in to my US Soccer job, which basically gave me the foundation to do anything I want to do. Because I stuck it out; it was that grunt work and the stuff that nobody wants to do. Sometimes you’re the low man on the totem pole. You just have to be a little bit humble. I wish I would have paid a little bit better attention to the people I was around. Like at Tech, or when I was with some of the pro-teams - you’re just wide-eyed and trying to take everything in. You’re going to get into a setting where you just have to do it; and the more you’ve seen and the more you’ve been around, the more you can make good decisions on “yeah, I saw that, great!” or “yeah, I saw that, but I’d do it a little bit different.” People ask me now, “What did you do with the Raiders?” “I don’t know! I was just a little intern and was so excited to be there.” And I didn’t pay as close attention as I should have. Just try to soak everything up that you can.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-52569696183406777982015-04-06T09:15:00.002-05:002015-04-06T09:15:10.817-05:00Athletic Training: A World of Adventure by Mark Stephens<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I love being an athletic trainer! Why?
One word: adventure. This career,
certainly in the traditional setting, is never dull, never the same, always
changing. Every season brings new
athletes, a few new coaches, new opponents, new game strategies and new
injuries. No injury is the same because
the athletes are different. This alone
keeps you thinking, keeps you fresh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In my short time of being an athletic trainer, I
have gotten to experience traveling, TONS of games, hundreds of athletes and
hundreds of coaches. I have worked with
injured 12 year old athletes who are as young as 12 years old, and others who
are close to 30. I have provided
athletic training services to at least 17 different sports from beginning
levels to collegiate championship levels and beyond. Each of these sports and teams remain in the
memory banks for highs of winning, lows of losing, difficulties conquered and
goals reached. Each event is an
adventure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As I age, it becomes too easy to dwell on the
negative and fail to see the adventure and enjoyment that surrounds our profession
every day. I can recall going to AT
conferences and listening to the older ATs complain about playoffs and long
seasons and long days, working with athletes, parents, coaches, etc. I made a resolution to do everything I could
not to become “that guy”, that sour man who hates life. One of the ways that I have found that
combats that sour disposition from sinking in is to cherish the adventure
within the profession. To be honest
though, I still sometimes find myself sinking into that sour outlook, but when
I focus on the adventure and true enjoyment of what we do, I find the sourness
fades.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There are many adventures that athletic training has
taken me on. It’s been ride, some of
highs and some lows. However, it may be your biggest adventure you take in
life. And, I can tell you from first-hand experience, if you are not careful
and pay attention, it will go by in a blink. Cherish the memories you’ve made
and work to make new ones you are to remember in the future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-87450706670062596022015-03-19T08:19:00.003-05:002015-03-19T08:19:52.716-05:00Communication: The Key Component in Athletic Training by Mark Stephens<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">What is
the one word that we think of when we hear the word communicate? Talk.</span> <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Well,
sometimes it may not be so simple. You
often have trouble finding the right words.
Talk to whom <i>exactly</i>?! Talk to
your friends, your parents…your colleagues?
And, tell them what?! It’s hard
enough to talk to those who are close to us like our family and friends but
what do we do when we have a superior? We must be open and honest. Regardless if what we have to say is good or
bad, more of than not the truth overrides falsehoods. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Do you
ever remember your parent’s tell you “As long as you tell us the truth, you
won’t get in trouble”. I know what
you’re thinking. “Uh huh, sure”. Well in this case it’s the truth. As health care professionals in the career
of athletic training, communication is the key component to establishing a
successful and effective working relationship with your superior. If you think about it, what is the one thing
that we are asked as by the coach and athletic staff when we witness an
injury? “Is he /she okay”? or “how bad
is it”…” do you know when they will be back to full status”. When this happens, we get a little nervous
and become apprehensive on what to say.
It’s during this time when I remember that as long as I speak the truth,
I will not get into trouble. I’m sure we
can all agree that we if we are honest and up front with our coaches and
athletic staff about an injured athlete, we do them a service. Often at times we think we may hurt the
coaches feelings and make them upset by not telling them what they want to
hear. However, I defy anyone to tell me otherwise. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-1203152625037644812015-02-24T12:18:00.002-06:002015-02-24T12:18:22.135-06:00Manual Therapy in the Secondary Setting- Friend or Foe? By Cat Webb<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Personally I have been using manual
therapies in my secondary setting for a couple of years now. At first I was
hesitant in my career and soon realized the benefit they had to offer. My top 3
go to manual therapies are: Positional Release Technique (PRT), Muscle Energy
Technique (MET) and Mulligan manual therapies with mobilizations. Each of these
techniques did require additional certifications and education. Nevertheless,
as an athletic trainer in the secondary setting I am improving my overall
treatment time by reducing my clinical treatments from an average of 5 days (5
treatments) to 2 days (2 treatments). I am also able to perform all of these
manual therapy treatments on the field and return patients to play pain free
immediately. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I have had great success using PRT
with headache patients including concussion patients, neck pain/soreness and
low back pain/soreness. Positional
release technique (PRT) is a unique method that has been gaining popularity as
a manual therapy technique with lasting effects by decreasing muscle tension,
fascial tension and hypomobility, in turn increases range of motion (ROM) and
decreases pain.<!--[if supportFields]><span style='mso-element:field-begin'></span>
ADDIN EN.CITE
<EndNote><Cite><Author>D&apos;Ambrogio</Author><Year>1997</Year><RecNum>119</RecNum><DisplayText><style
face="superscript">1</style></DisplayText><record><rec-number>119</rec-number><foreign-keys><key
app="EN"
db-id="a9pxadzwbd0daae9a9vxfevgdw5drzvvva2w">119</key></foreign-keys><ref-type
name="Book">6</ref-type><contributors><authors><author>D&apos;Ambrogio,
Kerry. J</author><author>Roth, George.
B</author></authors></contributors><titles><title>Positional
Release Theraphy Assessment and Treatment of Musculoskeletal
Dysfunction</title></titles><dates><year>1997</year></dates><pub-location>St.
Louis, Missouri</pub-location><publisher>Mosby-Year Book,
Inc.</publisher><urls></urls></record></Cite></EndNote><span
style='mso-element:field-separator'></span><![endif]--><sup>1</sup><!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-end'></span><![endif]--> PRT is a method that uses a total body
screening evaluation to locate tender points (TP) while placing the patient in
a position of comfort (POC) to resolve dysfunctional tender points. This indirect technique involves positioning
the patient away from resistance and towards the direction of greatest ease,
opposite that of stretching. Theory behind
PRT, is that by placing the compromised
tissues into a position of relaxation
for a period of time you will decrease gamma gain and facilitate restoration of
normal tissue length and tension.<sup>1,3,4</sup> The application of PRT by the clinician
relaxes the muscle-spindle mechanism and breaks down the contraction,<!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-begin'></span> ADDIN EN.CITE
<EndNote><Cite><Author>L.H</Author><Year>1964</Year><RecNum>137</RecNum><DisplayText><style
face="superscript">3</style></DisplayText><record><rec-number>137</rec-number><foreign-keys><key
app="EN"
db-id="a9pxadzwbd0daae9a9vxfevgdw5drzvvva2w">137</key></foreign-keys><ref-type
name="Journal
Article">17</ref-type><contributors><authors><author>Jones
L.H</author></authors></contributors><titles><title>Spontaneous
release by positioning</title><secondary-title>DO</secondary-title></titles><periodical><full-title>DO</full-title></periodical><pages>109-116</pages><volume>January</volume><dates><year>1964</year></dates><urls></urls></record></Cite></EndNote><span
style='mso-element:field-separator'></span><![endif]--><sup>3</sup><!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-end'></span><![endif]--> allowing the clinician to provide biofeedback
while palpating the TP and breaking the chain of muscle contraction that causes
pain or weakness from the point of dysfunction.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
On the other hand, I have had great
success treating patients with MET that complain of pain or soreness along the
following muscles-sartorius, rectus femoris, iliopsoas and quadratus lumborum. MET is a direct mobilization technique that
uses voluntary contraction by the patient to treat soft tissue restrictions.<!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-begin'></span> ADDIN EN.CITE
<EndNote><Cite><Author>Stone</Author><Year>2000</Year><RecNum>232</RecNum><DisplayText><style
face="superscript">1</style></DisplayText><record><rec-number>232</rec-number><foreign-keys><key
app="EN"
db-id="a9pxadzwbd0daae9a9vxfevgdw5drzvvva2w">232</key></foreign-keys><ref-type
name="Journal Article">17</ref-type><contributors><authors><author>Stone,
Jennifer
A.</author></authors></contributors><titles><title>Muscle
Energy Technique</title><secondary-title>Athletic Therapy
Today</secondary-title></titles><periodical><full-title>Athletic
Therapy
Today</full-title></periodical><pages>25</pages><volume>5</volume><number>5</number><keywords><keyword>SOFT
tissue injuries</keyword><keyword>MUSCLE
contraction</keyword><keyword>REHABILITATION</keyword></keywords><dates><year>2000</year></dates><isbn>10787895</isbn><accession-num>6225406</accession-num><work-type>Article</work-type><urls><related-urls><url>http://ida.lib.uidaho.edu:2048/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&amp;db=aph&amp;AN=6225406&amp;site=ehost-live&amp;scope=site</url></related-urls></urls><remote-database-name>aph</remote-database-name><remote-database-provider>EBSCOhost</remote-database-provider></record></Cite></EndNote><span
style='mso-element:field-separator'></span><![endif]--><sup>1</sup><!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-end'></span><![endif]--> MET was developed based on
the principles of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF). MET has been found to normalize joint ROM,<!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-begin'></span> ADDIN EN.CITE
<EndNote><Cite><Author>Chaitow</Author><Year>1996</Year><RecNum>228</RecNum><DisplayText><style
face="superscript">2</style></DisplayText><record><rec-number>228</rec-number><foreign-keys><key
app="EN"
db-id="a9pxadzwbd0daae9a9vxfevgdw5drzvvva2w">228</key></foreign-keys><ref-type
name="Book">6</ref-type><contributors><authors><author>Leon
Chaitow</author></authors><secondary-authors><author>Churchill
Livingstone</author></secondary-authors></contributors><titles><title>Muscle
Energy Techniques</title></titles><volume>Second
Edition</volume><num-vols>2</num-vols><dates><year>1996</year></dates><publisher>Harcourt
Publishers
Limited</publisher><urls></urls></record></Cite></EndNote><span
style='mso-element:field-separator'></span><![endif]--><sup>2</sup><!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-end'></span><![endif]--> increase joint mobility,
increase flexibility,<!--[if supportFields]><span style='mso-element:field-begin'></span>
ADDIN EN.CITE
<EndNote><Cite><Author>Shadmehr</Author><Year>2009</Year><RecNum>229</RecNum><DisplayText><style
face="superscript">3</style></DisplayText><record><rec-number>229</rec-number><foreign-keys><key
app="EN"
db-id="a9pxadzwbd0daae9a9vxfevgdw5drzvvva2w">229</key></foreign-keys><ref-type
name="Journal
Article">17</ref-type><contributors><authors><author>Shadmehr,
Azadeh</author><author>Hadian, Mohmmad
Reza</author><author>Naiemi, Sedigheh
Sadat</author><author>Jalaie,
Shohreh</author></authors></contributors><titles><title>Hamstring
flexibility in young women following passive stretch and muscle energy
technique</title><secondary-title>Journal of Back &amp; Musculoskeletal
Rehabilitation</secondary-title></titles><periodical><full-title>Journal
of Back &amp; Musculoskeletal
Rehabilitation</full-title></periodical><pages>143-148</pages><volume>22</volume><number>3</number><keywords><keyword>HAMSTRING
muscle</keyword><keyword>STRETCHING
exercises</keyword><keyword>MUSCLES</keyword><keyword>KNEE</keyword><keyword>TISSUES</keyword><keyword>YOUNG
women</keyword><keyword>Hamstring
flexibility</keyword><keyword>knee
extension</keyword><keyword>passive
stretching</keyword></keywords><dates><year>2009</year></dates><publisher>IOS
Press</publisher><isbn>10538127</isbn><accession-num>44199295</accession-num><work-type>Article</work-type><urls><related-urls><url>http://ida.lib.uidaho.edu:2048/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&amp;db=aph&amp;AN=44199295&amp;site=ehost-live&amp;scope=site</url></related-urls></urls><electronic-resource-num>10.3233/bmr-2009-0227</electronic-resource-num><remote-database-name>aph</remote-database-name><remote-database-provider>EBSCOhost</remote-database-provider></record></Cite></EndNote><span
style='mso-element:field-separator'></span><![endif]--><sup>3</sup><!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-end'></span><![endif]--> strengthen muscles and relax
hypertonic shortened muscles. Exact
theories are unclear as to why MET works, one theory suggest that MET releases
restricted joints through isometric muscle action known as autogenic inhibition.<!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-begin'></span> ADDIN EN.CITE
<EndNote><Cite><Author>Day</Author><Year>2010</Year><RecNum>231</RecNum><DisplayText><style
face="superscript">4</style></DisplayText><record><rec-number>231</rec-number><foreign-keys><key
app="EN" db-id="a9pxadzwbd0daae9a9vxfevgdw5drzvvva2w">231</key></foreign-keys><ref-type
name="Journal
Article">17</ref-type><contributors><authors><author>Day,
Joseph M.</author><author>McKeon,
Patrick</author><author>Nitz,
Arthur</author></authors></contributors><titles><title>The
efficacy of cervical/thoracic active range of motion for detecting changes
associated with individuals receiving muscle energy
techniques</title><secondary-title>Physical Therapy
Reviews</secondary-title></titles><periodical><full-title>Physical
Therapy Reviews</full-title></periodical><pages>453-461</pages><volume>15</volume><number>6</number><keywords><keyword>THORACIC
vertebrae</keyword><keyword>PHYSIOLOGY</keyword><keyword>CERVICAL
vertebrae</keyword><keyword>ANALYSIS of
variance</keyword><keyword>CONFIDENCE intervals</keyword><keyword>JOINTS
-- Range of motion</keyword><keyword>MANIPULATION
(Therapeutics)</keyword><keyword>SYSTEMATIC reviews (Medical
research)</keyword><keyword>ACTIVE RANGE OF
MOTION</keyword><keyword>ISOMETRIC
CONTRACTION</keyword><keyword>Manipulation</keyword><keyword>Manual
therapy</keyword><keyword>MOBILIZATION</keyword></keywords><dates><year>2010</year></dates><publisher>Maney
Publishing</publisher><isbn>10833196</isbn><accession-num>59763406</accession-num><work-type>Article</work-type><urls><related-urls><url>http://ida.lib.uidaho.edu:2048/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&amp;db=aph&amp;AN=59763406&amp;site=ehost-live&amp;scope=site</url></related-urls></urls><electronic-resource-num>10.1179/1743288x10y.0000000020</electronic-resource-num><remote-database-name>aph</remote-database-name><remote-database-provider>EBSCOhost</remote-database-provider></record></Cite></EndNote><span
style='mso-element:field-separator'></span><![endif]--><sup>4</sup><!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-end'></span><![endif]--> This theory addresses treating postural and
phasic fibers through MET. In order to
isolate both fibers the patient contraction must occur between 10 and 30
percent. This allows for avoidance of
fatigue which can occur during a more vigorous contraction, such as in
PNF. The second theory addresses only
the postural muscles, also known as non-fatiguing muscles. This type of contraction occurs with less
than 30 percent to avoid the stretch reflex.
MET works during this type of muscle contraction by resetting the gamma
gain of the muscle spindle and possibly creating a voluntary contraction of the
opposite muscle. Muscle energy techniques can be applied in two different
methods based upon the patient’s pain.
Patient’s reporting with tightness should be treated with a post
isometric relaxation technique where the agonist muscle is being isolated. This isolation increases the neurofeedback
through the spinal cord during the isometric contraction. This in turn causes re-education in the
muscle tone. This is very similar to PNF
with relaxation after an isometric contraction however performed with less
intensity. If the patient reports pain
then the clinician would choose the method of reciprocal inhibition muscle
energy techniques. Reciprocal inhibition
treats the antagonist and is used for acute injuries that are painful. This allows the clinician to treat in
mid-range instead of end-range and avoid pain by treating opposite of the
injured muscle.<!--[if supportFields]><span style='mso-element:field-begin'></span>
ADDIN EN.CITE
<EndNote><Cite><Author>Chaitow</Author><Year>1996</Year><RecNum>228</RecNum><DisplayText><style
face="superscript">2</style></DisplayText><record><rec-number>228</rec-number><foreign-keys><key
app="EN"
db-id="a9pxadzwbd0daae9a9vxfevgdw5drzvvva2w">228</key></foreign-keys><ref-type
name="Book">6</ref-type><contributors><authors><author>Leon
Chaitow</author></authors><secondary-authors><author>Churchill
Livingstone</author></secondary-authors></contributors><titles><title>Muscle
Energy Techniques</title></titles><volume>Second
Edition</volume><num-vols>2</num-vols><dates><year>1996</year></dates><publisher>Harcourt
Publishers Limited</publisher><urls></urls></record></Cite></EndNote><span
style='mso-element:field-separator'></span><![endif]--><sup>2</sup><!--[if supportFields]><span
style='mso-element:field-end'></span><![endif]--><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Mulligan Mobilization with movement
(MWM) is a system of manual therapy interventions developed by Brian Mulligan
that I have had great success treating lateral ankle sprains, tennis/golf elbow,
loss of supination/pronation, loss of interphalangeal joint movement and tight
hamstrings. This manual therapy combines
a sustained manual ‘gliding’ force to a joint with concurrent physiologic
(osteokinematic) motion of the joint, either actively performed by the patient,
or passively performed by the operator. The manual force, or mobilization, is
theoretically intended to cause repositioning of ‘bony positional fault’. The
intent of MWMs is to restore pain-free motion at joints which have painful
limitation of range of movement (ROM). Therein lies one of the key aspects of
the mobilizations with movement system: a trial of MWM at the time of the
initial patient examination will determine whether MWM is an appropriate
therapeutic intervention for that patient’s dysfunction. If a trial of MWM is
able to eliminate the pain associated with an active movement, then MWM is an
appropriate intervention; if not, then MWM is not an appropriate intervention.
In the event that a trial of MWM is not able to eliminate the pain associated
with an active movement, the therapist should not employ the MWM, and other
therapeutic interventions should, therefore, be explored.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
All in all, manual therapies are
your friend. They reduce your patient load by decreasing your overall treatment
time and accurately treating the patient’s pain instead of using a band-aid. I
hope they become your friend as they are mine and you begin the research
process of finding the best ones that fit your practice. Hopefully the 3 listed
above are a good starting point.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-46804763241644357822015-02-09T08:01:00.001-06:002015-02-09T08:01:18.254-06:00Calling all young professionals to NATA!<div class="MsoNormal">
The Young Professional’s Committee has some new and exciting
tricks up their sleeve for this year’s convention in Saint Louis. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For starters, be on the lookout for registration information
about our career session that will be held on Wednesday afternoon. We will be blasting out an announcement in
the next issue of NATA News and ROM. Our
session will feature mock interviews where YP’s can be both the interviewer and
interviewee. Want to touch up those
skills prior to a big interview this summer?
This is the session for you! Want
to start working on your skills so you can help with the interview process for
that new assistant position at your job?
This session has something for you as well!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Young Professionals and Cramer will be teaming up once
again to host the YP lounge event. Be on
the look out for the announcement in the programming guide. Last year’s lounge event in Indianapolis was
so successful- we had almost 500 people present! Come out and enjoy meeting the hall of fame
members, the YP committee members, and many others within the profession. Grab a drink with your free ticket, and rub
elbows with the professions’ finest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lastly, do not forget to look for the YP stamp on the programming
guide. This stamp indicates the sessions
that are geared towards the young professional.
Go check them out!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
See you in St. Louis!<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-22716204601307725812015-02-03T10:26:00.000-06:002015-02-03T10:26:10.855-06:00Where's The Money by Julie Ellena<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">As most of you may of seen in the January edition of the NATA news, a new Athletic Trainer Salary survey has been released. As a profession our salaries have increased steadily since 2011. The national average for full time position in 2014 was $55,036. In District 6 the average salary reported was $64,126 which is six thousand dollars above and beyond the previously reported salary. Across the nation salaries increased, the largest increase in salary over the last 3 years was the young professional group (1-5) years of experience, improving more than 12 percent.</span></span></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">As the profession moves forward with this knowledge, we are look forward to continue success showing our value. With the current healthcare model in America the athletic trainer is receiving increased value. Our skill set is unlike any other, various health care professionals and community health organizations are stating to take notice. Our efforts are being helped by medical issues occurring in the spotlight (concussions, heat illness and unfortunately, the death of athletes) and being talked more and more in the mainstream media. We are seeing parents, realize what an assets an athletic trainer is and parents are taking action to save AT jobs and create new ones.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">As our profession continues to change and grow with the nation's health care needs, we expect the salaries will continue to increase as more and more individuals are taking a proactive approach to healthcare, rather than a reactive one. Let continue to improve and show our value, it's working.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">For more information on the salary survey, there is a free interactive salary database </span><a href="http://www.nata.org/nata-salary-survey" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;" target="_blank">www.nata.org/nata-salary-<wbr></wbr>survey</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8000001907349px;" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-81667804059016971052015-01-23T07:43:00.003-06:002015-01-23T07:43:50.855-06:00On the Cutting Edge of Everything, by Julie Ellena<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
As Athletic Trainers we are expected to on the cutting edge of health care, as individuals we are expected to be in the know about new trends and technology, but at what point does one decided they can not be on the cutting edge of everything. There will always be the new rehabilitation exercise or routine, a new tape technique, the latest phone update, injury tracking program, etc. So how do we decided what to filter in and what to filter out in the flow of information we process daily. One of the best athletic training resources I have found to keep me informed is an email called "Athletic Trainer Weekly" Its a weekly email that collects articles from around the web that relates to the athletic training profession. It's a great addition to the emails I receive from the NATA Blast and NATA Monthly (both which are great benefits of NATA Membership!) According to the Athletic Trainer Weekly website (<a href="http://athletictrainerweekly.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://athletictrainerweekly.<wbr></wbr>com</a>) "<strong style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: center;">Athletic Trainer Weekly is a free, weekly curation of the best information for athletic trainers from the web and from experts in the field." </strong><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: center;">Personally, I enjoy reading the Athletic Trainer Weekly. It is organized and published by a fellow Athletic Trainer and it's divided up by subject matter: In the News, For the Kit, From the Field, Hit the Books, Sage Advice, Up the Ladder, and they typically have a funny story or video at the end. Go Check it out! It's free and not many things in life are free. Happy Reading!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-58658873624166974912015-01-06T10:26:00.001-06:002015-01-06T10:26:46.240-06:00Advocating to Secondary School Administration by Michelle Vryhof Holt<div class="MsoNormal">
No matter what situation we are in or where we are working
at we should be advocates for ourselves, each other and our profession. I have
recognized that even our biggest allies in our workplace can still benefit from
conversation and understanding of what it is we really are able to do and what
we should be responsible for. It is vital to clarify realistic expectations
with those that we must answer to in order to preserve that providing quality
medical care to student-athletes or patients is the most important thing we do
and must be made priority over all else. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been very fortunate to be in company with those who
exemplify this. I currently get to witness and assists behind the scenes with
the process of proposing another full-time athletic trainer for each school in
our district to the chain of command in administration. It is a great
experience for a young professional growing in my career and equips me for the
tools to effectively move a motion like this one forward myself if the future
presents the opportunity. I want to share some tips I have learned to others
who may find themselves alone in such a position.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Education is always the first crucial step in
order to see actions made in our favor. School or district administration
professionals will not understand the need to act if they don’t understand how
important our role is and how well we fulfill the needs they might not even realize
they have by doing what we are skilled and trained to do as medical
professionals.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Plan a way to present that keeps them engaged,
perhaps a powerpoint could help. Try to say what you need to say in as few
words as possible and keep the information organized so it flows. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Numbers talk. Try including a graph or chart to
document points that can help support the need. Ideas may be injury rates in
seasons, season overlaps including “off-seasons” that still compete, coaching
staff growth rates vs. support staff growth, and change in athlete/athletic
trainer ratio over time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->What are the most important athletic trainer’s
responsibilities related to care and what are the “other duties as assigned”
that could take away from that quality of care?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->If you bring up the amount of hours you work,
try to frame it in a different light. Others work long, long hours too but how
could it affect someone’s life? It may help to focus on fatigue’s potential effect
on skills and judgment in critical injury situations, especially at the big
events at with high injury potential at the end of the week.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->6)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Stay positive! It can be easy to list out the
complaints. If the tone can somehow stay positive with energy focusing on the
goal of helping the student athletes, there is a much better chance that your
important information doesn’t fall on deaf ears.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->7)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Be prepared with alternative ideas that could
still benefit you and rebuttals to potential questions. Is it appropriate for a
head coach or coordinator be your direct supervisor? Maybe an open line of
direct contact to administration is a key that helps the seed spread.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->8)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Don’t let the conversation stall. It will take
time to pass through the levels for consideration, so keep stimulating the
topic with your admin. Also, try to plan for proposal at the beginning of
administration’s budget planning process so that timing works in your favor.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->9)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Most importantly, don’t give up! Keep trying
different ways to help those above you understand, and when personnel changes
occur realize the opportunity for a recharge in your advocacy efforts.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-1790974117364112822014-12-22T10:05:00.004-06:002014-12-22T10:06:00.493-06:00Energy Bus by Michelle Vryhof<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We know that the inevitable factor of change keeps life
interesting, but also challenging. When I consider the past few years of my own
life, the situations have been fluidly changing but my “to-do” list is almost
always a constant in length. The encouraging thing in my mind is that my
never-die work ethic to be productive and be involved hasn’t wavered. The
struggle, however, is teetering the line of burnout when trying to balance work
and life. Also, keeping upbeat and having a positive attitude toward the daily
aspects of the grind can become more difficult as the sport seasons or
responsibilities go on and on without rest for the weary athletic trainers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you are feeling a little worn out and perhaps not quite
your usual self, let me suggest that you take the time to read a small book
that that could possibly change your life forever. I know, I know…why am I
asking you to do then one <i>more </i>thing
that takes up time from busy life? It’s a very short, easy read and the story
demonstrates the pearls of wisdom in a way that keeps you interested to read it
from cover to cover in one sitting. The book is titled <i>The Energy Bus</i> by Jon Gordon. The 10 valuable rules to fuel your
life are:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">1.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->You’re the driver of the bus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">2.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Desire, vision and focus move your bus in the
right direction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">3.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Fuel your ride with positive energy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">4.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Invite people on your bus and share your vision
for the road ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">5.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Don’t waste your energy on those who don’t get
on your bus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">6.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Post a sign that says “No energy vampires
allowed” on your bus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">7.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Enthusiasm attracts more passengers and
energized then during the ride.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">8.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Love your passengers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">9.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Drive with purpose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">10.<span style="font-stretch: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Have fun and enjoy the ride.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">These rules make perfect sense when you read the
whole book and find the ways to apply these principles. But here are some
additional thoughts of how to keep up the positivity in your daily life, things
that I try to remind myself all the time. First, in order to balance energy
with work and life, we have to let go of some things in our work life. As
athletic trainers, we wish we could do it all and we sure try to. We have to
accept and then let go that we perhaps didn’t get to everything on our to-do
list or didn’t finish a task quite as well as we would have liked. Do your best,
but when it is time to say “no” you are helping yourself and those around you
by not stretching yourself too thin and jeopardizing the quality of care you
give. Second, stay positive by celebrating the smallest successes or improvements
in others. It really spreads enthusiasm and encourages patients in dealing with
their pain or struggle. I share this with you in hopes to help anyone who needs
a little positive energy pick-me-up as we look ahead to a fresh new year full
of great potential!! </span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-79969207044745191132014-11-24T10:07:00.002-06:002014-11-24T10:07:18.437-06:00Blog by Kimber Rodgers<div class="MsoNormal">
I had a patient this week that really made me think. He has a low grade ankle sprain… something
I’m sure most athletic trainers deal with on a weekly basis. His strength and ROM were normal, but he was
not able to complete functional tests. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will admit… I don’t like to be wrong. I’m competitive and I like to be right. But with this patient, I was at a loss. I threw everything I had in my arsenal of
tricks at him. But it seemed no matter
what I did, he didn’t show improvement. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I woke up yesterday and remembered: an Airrosti Certified
Chiropractor, who moved to my area this summer, met with me in late July and
offered his services and conveyed his interest in treating athletes. So, I called him; I explained the situation,
gave him some history on the patient, and he happened to have an appointment
available that morning. With a few tests
and a couple of new corrective exercises, he discovered a muscle strain
secondary to the ankle sprain I had not even thought to consider. After one treatment, the patient’s pain was
60% better and his functional status was dramatically improved.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am so fortunate to have such a talented group of health
care professionals in my area! I would
definitely encourage everyone out there to use all of the tools you have at
your disposal. Whether it’s an Airrosti
Certified Provider, sports massage therapist, someone with certifications in
manual therapy or other alternative techniques, etc. make contact with other
healthcare professionals in your area and develop relationships with them. Those
relationships can help improve patient outcomes and help us to become better
athletic trainers by learning new “tools” from other healthcare professionals.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-91672642127721808832014-11-17T13:47:00.001-06:002014-11-17T13:47:03.003-06:00Developing a Student Aid program in the Secondary School Setting<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve had several friends and colleagues, even coaches at my
school, ask me how I find and keep so many good student aids. We treat our student aid program just like we
would if we worked at the college level or if these students were employed
through us. We have high expectations of
our students and hold them to a high standard.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think there are several things that contribute to
developing and sustaining an effective student aid program. These are things we do at the high school
where I work; there definitely is not a right or best way to do it… but this
has been working for us over the past 5 years, and interest in our student aid
program continues to grow. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think the first step is evaluating the needs of your
athletic programs to determine how large, or small, you would like your staff. We start the year with around 20 student
aids, and typically have an additional 3 or 4 students in class that do not
have obligations after school. Inevitably, you will have student aids
quit. They either don’t know what they
are truly getting in to, decide they want to spend their time doing other
things, or move; but for whatever reason you will lose at least one student aid
every year. The extra students who start
the year with no obligations can serve to fill those spaces, in the eventuality
you have a student aid leave your staff.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next, we have an application that all students interested in
the student aid program complete. The
application includes a summation of duties and expectations, a brief
questionnaire, and a grade report to be completed by the student’s current
teachers. We evaluate each application
before contacting students for an interview.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During the interview, we go into more detail about what will
be expected and required of the student aids in our program. We stress the amount of time that is required
to become a student aid, and try to reiterate that point several times during
the interview. We get to know each
student to determine if they would be a good fit with our current staff. Then, we answer questions the student may
have for us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Upon completion of the interviews, we send a letter to each
student informing them whether we are offering them a position on our student
aid staff, desiring them to take our class with no extracurricular obligations,
or (in rare cases) saying “Thank you for your interest, but….” I believe by treating the process of
selecting our student aids as a professional application, we emphasize the importance
we place on our program and give students selected a sense of pride and
accomplishment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before the school year begins, we hold an in-service with
our newly selected student aids to teach them basic skills we want them to know
early on (e.g. CPR and First Aid, basic taping techniques, etc.), and then
another with our entire staff to go over rules and procedures, brush up on
basic skills, and prepare the athletic training room for the coming
season. Throughout the year, we hold
monthly meetings to inform student aids on upcoming events and to discuss any
issues that may have occurred.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We also try to have fun with our students. We carve pumpkins
together at Halloween, have a Christmas party, and several other things
throughout the year to show our student aids that we appreciate their hard work
and dedication. I know our students
look forward to having homemade lasagna and Secret Santa at the Christmas party
every year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While this has worked for my school, you have to find
something that works for you and your situation. However, I encourage you to expect more from
your student aids; if you hold them to a higher standard, they will begin to do
the same for themselves and may surprise you with what they are capable of.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-4402140991624889992014-10-27T08:51:00.004-05:002014-10-27T08:51:32.247-05:00ATC’s and Impact: Not just Cognitive Recall<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Often the world of athletic training, we hear the word “impact”. There can often be a common misconception of
what the true word of “impact” means.
Any athletic trainer will tell you that when they hear the word “impact”,
they automatically think of ImPACT testing.
An ImPACT test was developed by clinical experts who pioneered the field
of helping treat concussions. ImPACT
(Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is the most-widely
used and most scientifically validated computerized concussion evaluation
system. ImPACT provides trained
clinicians with neurocognitive assessment tools and services that have been
medically accepted as state-of-the-art best practices -- as part of determining
safe return to play decisions. Though this is appealing and VERY important in
decision making regarding athlete’s return to play protocol, I prefer to think
of impact as something that we ensure as health care professionals…something
that we choose to do. Here is how we can
make an ImPACT of our own in the profession of athletic training:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> Get involved!!</b> – How often do we see those
people just “sitting” on a job? One
thing comes to mind…supervisor. Yes, we
all know that CEO’s and big Whigs of major corporations are apparently making
the “big bucks”. But what is it that
they <i>really</i> do? Sure, they might be a
pencil pusher and big “high man on the totem pole” who calls the shots. BUT, are they actually teaching you
anything? What is it that you are learning
from your superior? Are you learning
anything at all? If you commonly find
yourself stuck between a rock and a hard sport regarding the “day in and day
out” normal work grind of the run of the mill job, you are spinning your
wheels. I challenge you all to broaden
your knowledge base of sports medicine and to get involved in an organization
in some way or another. Reach out and join a committee, or volunteer to help
others. You’d be surprised how much this
would make a difference. Even if you don’t learn anything new, there is always
the chance you could educate someone else and become a teacher! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Vote!!-</b> Every couple of years, there is always the
opportunity to elect new board members into new organizations. Some of which you may have heard of: SWATA,
NATA, GHATS, YPC…etc. The list is endless.
How are we able to broaden our base of knowledge and implement knowledge
construction in place of knowledge reproduction if we don’t elect new leaders
or teachers of our own? Remember that
old hag you had in grade school who was mean to everyone. 20 years later, you realize that she’s still
around and now it’s not you dealing with her, only your children are. Sound familiar?! Need I say more? I rest my case!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Stay abreast on
current research!!-</b> Yes, yes,
yes. I know. Last thing that we all want
to hear are the words “statistically significant” or “the null hypothesis
showed that p is less than 0.5….” blah blah blah. I myself hated statistics and am NOT a
research person. But let me ask you this: The first time you ate some of
grandma’s cookies that were dry and tasted like chocolate chip corn bread, did
you ask for more? No!! You found a way to bake something better
right?! Why? Because who wants to eat something that tastes atrocious? I sure don’t. So, does it make sense to keep
“spinning” our wheels? I think you can answer that one. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are new trends of research and medicine that are
evolving every day. As health care
professionals, how are we to treat the hurt and wounded if we aren’t up to
speed on current research and medicine? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These are just a few of what I can think of off the top of
my head. The list goes on and on. Like I said, athletic trainers are some of
the most unnoticed and disregarded professionals in their line of work. However, we are called on to help those in
times of dire need and emergencies. If
we lose focus for just a second in this line of work, than we too start to spin
our wheels. Only then do we make an impact on others, but in a negative way. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-69936817253795734582014-10-16T17:08:00.001-05:002014-10-16T17:08:46.670-05:00Life of an ATC: Is It in You? <div class="MsoNormal">
As many of us enter the working world as a young aspiring
professional in our field, we tend to wonder what it would be like first rattle
out of the cage. We are afraid, excited,
and yet somewhat apprehensive of it all.
Prior to entering the world of young professionals, our lives as young
adults in college are spent in burning the late night oil trying to accomplish
our one goal: graduating. Afterwards, we
seek out what we think would be the easiest thing-securing the job. But, we are
still unsure of what to expect once we begin our career. I use to think that a
day job would be easy. Though athletic trainers don’t really follow the typical
8am-5PM protocol of work, there is still a lot to say for what we do. Here are a few reasons why I love being an athletic
trainer:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) <b>Every day is something new</b>- In this
line of work, you can expect the unexpected.
Whether it’s being on the sideline at a football game, sitting under a
tent at a soccer match, or getting up close and personal on the basketball
court, every day presents it’s own challenges.
I personally have witnessed a variety of injuries and issues that have
been personally challenging for me. At
the end of the day, you have dealt with or seen an injury, a psychosocial issue
with an athlete, dealt with a parent, or witnessed that big “W” from your
favorite team. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) <b>It keeps me young-</b>
It takes a special kind of person to do what we do. Being a former athlete
myself, I couldn’t get enough play time.
Whether it was for myself, or for my father, there was never enough time
for me to obtain all the play time that could satisfy me. Sometimes I reflect back on what times where
like when I was a kid- often wishing that I could go back in time and relive
those glory days on the field. I often
watch kids catch the hail mary that allows them to score the winning touchdown
in a game that separates the men from the boys. Seeing young student athletes
achieve something that I would not consider a small feat, makes me feel like
I’m a high school kid again. Not to
mention being around student athletic trainers who are half my age. They alone keep me on my toes. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) <b>Personal
satisfaction</b>- I hate to admit it but there are those times when we all
witness an athlete go down on the field. Whether it’s a sprained ankle, a
subluxed shoulder, or a torn ACL, we are called on as a confidant and health
care professional to use our skills and knowledge and utilize it to the
fullest, so we can return that particular student athlete or “all star” back to
full player’s status. For me, there is
nothing more rewarding then having a student athlete bounce back from such a
horrific injury, only to score the highest percentage points in a district
game. Not to mention, there is always
that big “thank you” from the parent themselves
<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4)<b> You become a
mentor</b>- Yes, yes, yes. I hate to
admit it too, but I did have ill feelings towards school counselors and mentors
when I was in school. We used to think
that all of those health and nutrition classes we took wouldn’t be necessary.
Little did I know, I was wrong. I cannot
tell you how many times I have been asked about nutrition, health, or even
weight training. You will soon realize
that after you develop a rapport with athletes, you will be the one that they
come to in dire needs of advice. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you can see, there is a lot more to athletic training
that just taping and give the typical “ice water” treatment. Athletic trainers are what I always consider
the step children of the athletic program.
Like musical composers, we are the ones who remain in the background and
wait in the wings in case we there is a medical emergency. We are underpaid and overworked but to me,
there is nothing in the world like sitting in the dugout eating sunflower seeds
and watching the game from an up close and personal view. In my opinion, sometimes as the bench warmer,
you not only get the best seat in the house, but also hold the most important
position on the team. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-83215995119660128852014-10-07T11:35:00.001-05:002014-10-07T11:35:16.380-05:00Annie's Advice<div class="MsoNormal">
One group of young professionals that we like to give advice
to are the recently graduated, and recently certified/licensed athletic
trainers. We all remember our first year on the job, and the challenges we
faced. I quickly learned that everything I learned in the classroom, was just a
foundation for what was going to be thrown at me. Having a mentor with some
tips to help along the way is a saving grace for many fresh athletic trainers.
Below I have complied a list of “tips and tricks” to help the new athletic
trainer get through the first few years in the profession. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Get or Stay close to a mentor from the HS setting</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Know and learn your limitations</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Utilize fellow ATCs</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Be confident in your abilities</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Communicate with your team physician</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Evaluate the whole athlete, not just the suspected
injury</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Don't be afraid to refer when necessary</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Work to educate your student athletes and others</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Be honest and straightforward with your athletes,
parents, and coaches</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Don't be afraid to say NO</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Take time to have some fun</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. Take
everything one-step at a time</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Listen to the Kids</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Get to know the janitors and secretaries</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Set up reasonable protocols</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Introduce yourself to the other team's ATC</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Don't be afraid to a risk</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Listen to those that have more experience than you,
but also your students</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-You're not going to get everything right 100% of the
time. Failing is a part of it. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Try not to take work home with you</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Don't be afraid to ask for help</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Talk to the kids like they are adults</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">-Get to know your AD</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<a href="http://www.nata.org/nata-news-blog/secondary-school-resources"><span style="color: #386eff; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">http://www.nata.org/nata-news-blog/secondary-school-resources</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Good luck on your career as an athletic trainer! Take it one
day at a time, lean on others for advice and assistance, and most importantly,
Have FUN! Welcome to the best profession out there. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-62167095269590603372014-09-30T10:08:00.004-05:002014-09-30T10:08:33.015-05:00How to cruise through speed bumps and avoid traffic jams of the secondary school ATRI cannot emphasis enough my passion for the secondary setting however it often comes with professionals in the early phases of burn-out. When I see these professionals I want to shake them and help them speed through the chaos of the secondary traffic jams that usually occur from 6:30-9am and 1:30-9pm. I have found that when speaking to my colleagues that are in this situation they often times refuse to change their ways and believe burn-out, stress and extreme tiredness are all part of our profession that we have to accept. This is not true!<br />
A close classmate of mine realized this the hard way. In a classroom setting round table discussion a group of Athletic Trainers from across the nation drilled him with questions often beginning with why, such as “why do you put out water”, “why do you work on Sundays”, “why are you juggling patients” after the intense questioning he broke down. His simple answer was, “I don’t know why, maybe it’s because I have always done it.” This response got me thinking, how could I help him…….?<br />
After collaborating with dozens of secondary athletic trainers from across the nation here is a short and simple map to beginning the steps of avoiding burn-out, lowering your stress level and enjoying your job once again-<br />
1. Make your presence known- yes it may take more time at the beginning however in the end you’ll stop chasing your tail<br />
a. Speak at booster club, PTA or open house meetings- parents need to know who you are and what your title is.<br />
i. This is the perfect time to correct vocabulary and emphasis our title as “Athletic Trainers NOT Trainers.”<br />
ii. Explain your treatment protocol, concussion policy, referral policy etc.<br />
iii. Communicate with parents, if they have a child that is an athlete they should know you just as if you where the Head Coach<br />
b. Speak to the faculty- Ask your principle for a 20 minute time slot during your teacher in-service. This again gives you the upper hand in informing the staff of your title and policies<br />
c. Speak to each of the sports teams- This step is crucial! Do not allow a coach to speak to their athletes about your treatment policies, title, and overall athletic training room procedures. When you allow someone else to inform the athletes you give room for error<br />
2. Make the ATR a clinic- when speaking to your parents, faculty and athletes inform them that they will be treated in a clinic not a “room”. This helps the individuals understand what you are expecting such as:<br />
a. Schedule appointments with your patients- have your athletes sign an appointment book when they walk in, first come first serve mind-set.<br />
i. Require all patients to attend am clinical treatments and if needed they can schedule an additional appointment for lunch, athletic period or after school. This gives you the opportunity to create a schedule and provide space between each treatment.<br />
ii. Require a sense of etiquette within the clinic- low voices, no cell phones, no food, no shoes etc. This will help the athlete understand the importance of their treatment and provide a calming environment<br />
iii. Slow down- yes you have too many patients for the amount of time you have with them and yes you might not be able to do the entire treatment that you would like or would be beneficial, however you must slow down<br />
1. Learn to prioritize your patients and their treatments- try to see your patients twice a day so that you have the opportunity to do two different treatments. This will provide you time between the treatments to reflect on your patient notes and research any new treatments you would like to do in the second treatment time<br />
2. Stop running around the ATR like a crazy person, it freaks out your patients and causes them to become anxious. Instead take your time with each patient, ask about their day, the upcoming game etc.<br />
3. Give away hydration- yes, this has been a part of our profession forever but when you are treating 30 athletes in a 45 minute window at a 6A high school, water should be the least of your worries. Your focus should be to treat, care, prevent and rehabilitate your patients like the medical professionals we are.<br />
a. Most high school sports have a manager, spend one class period teaching them how to clean coolers, location of all supplies and process of setting up for practice vs. games.<br />
i. This allows for more responsibility from the manager which is a skill all teenagers should learn and provides you time to treat patients. This allows for the coach to communicate any schedule changes to a student whom they already have in their class instead of calling you or you worrying about what practice will be like today.<br />
4. Be a professional- This one is going to be the hardest but will make the most impact.<br />
a. Dress like a professional- Don’t dress like a coach, you are not a coach, you are a medical professional with an extensive background in sports medicine. Don’t be scared to wear something other than khakis. I choose a few years ago to start wearing scrubs in the clinic and for inside sports. I have them in school colors with a monogram of the schools logo and my title. I found that the patients, parents and faculty’s attitude changed remarkably in a positive way. I am treated with respect and curiosity because I have made my presence known that I am a medical professional. This curiosity comes from patients, parents and faculty wanting to know more about athletic training and our skills.<br />
With these 4 easy steps I hope you are cruising through your day and avoiding all traffic jams that occur in the secondary setting. Of course there are countless ways to improve our setting however these have made the most impact on my setting and many others. Please pass along any other ideas that have worked in your setting so I can add them to the list, we are only as good as our weakest linkAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-25997771550629114922014-09-25T15:02:00.000-05:002014-09-25T15:02:12.472-05:00Concussions- question your surroundings This blog post is a challenge to you to enhance your practice of evidence based medicine and learn to question your surroundings-<br />
Unlike most sports injuries, concussion are often referred to as an invisible injury1. Concussions are defined as a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by traumatic biomechanical forces2. An estimated 300,000 sports related concussions occur annually in the United States, which is nearly 20% of the 1.5 million head injuries recorded3. This invisible injury can occur with several symptoms, many that are subjective in nature. Typical symptoms of a concussion may include somatic complaints (e.g., headache, dizziness, and fatigue), neurocognitive deficits (e.g., concentration and attention problems, information processing, and memory dysfunction), and emotional signs and symptoms (irritability, anxiety, low motivation).4,5 The presentation of concussion symptoms varies considerably patient to patient and without a formal way to identify the patient reported symptoms clinicians are unable to treat the patient accordingly6.<br />
In recognition of the need for better concussion management strategies, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), in conjunction with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), convened in Vienna in October of 2001 to evaluate the current status of concussion management guidelines and to draft practical recommendations for making return-to-play decisions (Aubry et al., 2002). It was during this conference that the recognition of utilizing a symptoms scale during return to play protocols and the importance of documenting the self-reporting symptoms of the concussion patient became evident. It became clear that symptom reporting scales where important in treating the patient and that several scales addressed the same symptoms, but there was not one scale that was viewed as the golden standard. To identify these symptoms the post-concussion symptom scale (PCSS) was developed to provide a formal method of documenting post-concussion symptoms, as perceived and reported by the patient7. The PCS scale items were constructed to reflect actual player reports rather than medical jargon7. The PCS scale measures the severity of patient reported concussion symptoms on a 0-6 Likert scale, while providing the clinician a formal way of documenting these post-concussion symptoms8-10. The PCSS includes the following 22 items: headache, nausea, vomiting, balance problems, dizziness, fatigue, trouble falling asleep, sleeping more than usual, sleeping less than usual, drowsiness, sensitivity to light, sensitivity to noise, irritability, sadness, nervous, feeling more emotional, numbness or tingling, feeling slowed down, feeling foggy, difficulty concentrating, difficulty remembering, and visual problems. The PCSS was developed to provide an adjunct to other tools, such as neuropsychological testing, and is commonly found within on-field concussion assessment tools (e.g., Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 2 [SCAT2]) and post-acute computerized neurocognitive tests (e.g., Immediate Post-concussion Assessment and Cognitive Test [ImPACT], CogSport)6.<br />
The PCSS is found to be broken into four factors: seven cognitive symptom factors (e.g., concentration, attention, memory and reaction time), three sleep disturbance symptom factors (e.g., sleeping more or less than usual) four emotional symptom factors (irritability, nervousness, sadness, more emotional than usual) and eight somatic symptom factors (e.g., headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea)6. This scale is scored as a total overall score that includes all four of the factors. The instrument is documented as having a low score if the patient reports 0, a borderline normal score if the patient reports 1-5, a borderline score if the patient reports 6-12, a very high score if the patient reports 13-26 and extremely high if the patient reports 27+. It is not understood or well researched what these different scores mean or how they should be treated. Kontos 2006, reports that as clinicians we should<br />
not only look at the total score of reporting symptoms but the individual score of each of the four factors2; this would allow clinicians a more in depth way of a multidisciplinary clinical management approach, rehabilitation treatments and return to play protocols6.<br />
Researchers have found, through factor analysis of the PCSS scale and multiple other symptom scales, that the emergent four factors may reflect different subtypes of concussions6. Researchers report that, as clinicians, we should not only look at the total score of reporting symptoms but the individual score of each of the four factors. This would provide clinicians with a more in-depth approach of analyzing and controlling rehabilitation treatments and return to play (RTP) protocols6.<br />
So…….… My question to my colleagues is this- Have you ever researched the tools given to you and may be required of you to use with your patients? Have you or do you understand the foundation of the numerous concussion scales, test or policies you are treating your patients with? I understand that concussions are a hot topic, however I feel this line of questioning should be utilized in all areas of athletic training. I know that being in the secondary setting myself we become comfortable and I find myself stuck, not able to explain a treatment method on a foundational scientific level or concussion scale with supporting research evidence. Once I realized this speed bump I began questioning everything, as I challenge you to do as well.<br />
Which brings me back to the PCSS that I find absolutely fascinating. I have watched numerous sports medicine professionals ask the symptoms check-list and leave the patient with a mindset of “yes they have symptoms” or “no they do not have symptoms”. Did you ever stop to think what each of those symptoms mean or where those symptoms are located in the brain? Did you stop to think of what the difference of somatic and cognitive symptoms could mean for your patient? I know I didn’t at first and then it all became clear. These symptoms mean something and that something is crucial for their return to play or return to learn. So I CHALLENGE you to take a closer look at your patients symptoms and figure out what they truly MEAN.<br />
~Cathlene Webb MS, ATC, LAT<br />
University of Idaho Doctoral Student<br />
1. Bloom GA, Horton AS, McCrory P, Johnston KM. Sport psychology and concussion: new impacts to explore. British Journal Of Sports Medicine. October 1, 2004 2004;38(5):519-521.<br />
2. Meehan WP, d’Hemecourt P, Comstock RD. High School Concussions in the 2008-2009 Academic Year. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. December 1, 2010 2010;38(12):2405-2409.<br />
3. Kelly JP, Nichols JS, Filley CM, Lillehei KO, Rubinstein D, Kleinschmidt-DeMasters BK. Concussion in sports. Guidelines for the prevention of catastrophic outcome. JAMA : the journal of the American Medical Association. 1991;266(20):2867-2869.<br />
4. Barr WB, McCrea M. Sensitivity and specificity of standardized neurocognitive testing immediately following sports concussion. Journal of Neurophysiology. 2001;7:693-702.<br />
5. McCrea M, KM G, SW M. Acute effects and recovery time following concussion in collegiate football players: the NCAA Concussion Study. JAMA : The Journal of the American Medical Association. 2003;290:2556-2563.<br />
6. Kontos AP, Elbin RJ, Schatz P, et al. A Revised Factor Structure for the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale: Baseline and Postconcussion Factors. American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2012;40(10):2375-2384.<br />
7. Lovell M, Iverson G, Collins M, et al. Measurement of Symptoms Following Sports-Related Concussion: Reliability and Normative Data for the Post-Concussion Scale. Applied Neuropsychology. 2006;13(3):166-174.<br />
8. Iverson GL, Gaetz M, Lovell MR, Collins MW. Cumulative effects of concussion in amateur athletes. Brain Injury. 2004;18(5):433-443.<br />
9. Echemendia RJ. Assessment and Management of Traumatic Brain Injury. Sports Neuropsychology. 2006.<br />
10. Iverson GL, Lange RT. Examination of "Postconcussion-Like" Symptoms in a Healthy Sample. Applied Neuropsychology. 2003;10(3):137.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-55892920594903103952014-09-23T12:29:00.002-05:002014-09-23T12:29:15.532-05:00David Gish<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="templateContainer" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; border: 0px currentColor; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; width: 600px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td align="center" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="templateHeader" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; background-color: white; border-bottom-color: currentColor; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; border-top-color: currentColor; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; width: 600px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="headerContainer" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="mcnImageBlock" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; width: 100%px;"><tbody class="mcnImageBlockOuter">
<tr><td class="mcnImageBlockInner" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; padding: 9px;" valign="top"><table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="mcnImageContentContainer" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="mcnImageContent" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; padding: 0px 9px; text-align: center;" valign="top"><img align="center" alt="" class="mcnImage" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/4ead2e0f432bf1f385dc26b78/images/04d03805-01dc-4213-8700-5bd82023a4f3.png" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline !important; max-width: 400px; padding-bottom: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: bottom;" width="200" /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<!-- // END HEADER --></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;" valign="top"><!-- BEGIN BODY // --><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" id="templateBody" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; background-color: white; border-bottom-color: currentColor; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; border-top-color: currentColor; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; width: 600px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="bodyContainer" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="mcnTextBlock" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; width: 100%px;"><tbody class="mcnTextBlockOuter">
<tr><td class="mcnTextBlockInner" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt;" valign="top"><table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="mcnTextContentContainer" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; width: 600px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="mcnTextContent" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #606060; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; line-height: 150%; mso-table-lspace: 0pt; mso-table-rspace: 0pt; padding: 9px 18px; text-align: justify;" valign="top"><h1 style="color: rgb(96, 96, 96) !important; display: block; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 40px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: -1px; line-height: 125%; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: navy;">Passing of David Gish<br />SWATA President</span></h1>
<h3 style="color: rgb(96, 96, 96) !important; display: block; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: -0.5px; line-height: 125%; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
</h3>
<strong>It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of our NATA District VI President, David Gish. David “fought like hell” just like he promised, but lost his battle with cancer overnight. David served his athletes, his students, and his members with professionalism, integrity, and character, and he will be severely missed. Though David’s tenure as President was very short, his impact and legacy to his colleagues, students, Board, and members was tremendous. He gave us the greatest gift of all, his time. A service to honor David’s life will be announced at a later date. Please keep his wife Karen, and his children Madison and Hayden in your thoughts and prayers.<br /> <br /> <br />Kathy I. Dieringer<br />District VI Director</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-27596573754169694012014-09-10T10:31:00.003-05:002014-09-10T10:31:20.354-05:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
AED “Expirations?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
This month, as I began my routine
of checking all of the AEDs in our facilities, I noticed we had one in
particular that was not cooperating.
Further investigation lead to the discovery that said AED was out of
warranty, and it was recommended by the manufacturer that it be removed from
use. Obviously, this came as a shock to
me. I have never heard of an AED
“expiring,” only the pads and batteries, which I replace regularly. I also found it shocking that this warranty
date was not posted on the AED itself, or on the manufacturer’s website. How then, I questioned the customer service
representative, does one know if their AED is out of warranty or not? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
All of us rely on the services of
an AED at practices and competitions, regardless if we actually put them to use
or not. We should have confidence in the
fact that when we need it, it will not fail.
It is, after all, a proven life-saving device. No sane person would ever put a faulty device
into rotation, so why then would a company not make this little tidbit known? <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The situation was quickly remedied
with the purchase of a new machine, but it left lingering questions. In addition to a mass inquiry as to when the
remainder of our AEDs expire, I question the company’s lack of education on
their products as well. What is the
standard practice here? What is it that
the FDA and American Heart Association recommend? And is this something that needs to be
brought to the attention of other practicing health care professionals? I leave with posing you the question of how
you would handle this situation at your jobsite, and yes, helpful comments are
certainly welcomed!<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08182930462779056968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-60382095090646122082014-06-02T13:04:00.000-05:002014-06-02T13:04:40.290-05:00Indy is Around the Corner!Every year the members of the NATA YPC are responsible for various educational and social opportunities for their peers at the NATA convention.<br />
<br />
"Your First Leadership Position: A Conversation with the Young Professional," a peer-to-peer session, is on Friday, June 27. When a YP assumes a leadership position, it can come with a unique set of challenges. Often the early struggles of management leave the YP wondering what they did wrong or how they could have done it better. This will be an open forum where members of the YPC will share experiences and resources to help clinicians avoid pitfalls in their work environment and in their lives.<br />
<br />
The YPC will also be hosting a financial planning workshop as a part of regular programming on Saturday, June 28, featuring both YPs and financial professional, discussing the needs of those trying to strike a balance between obligations and paychecks. This session is not designed just for the YP, but for any athletic trainer looking for financial guidance.<br />
<br />
And as always, the Remembering our Roots and Forging our Future YP social. This annual event is always one of the highlights for me during the symposium. It is a time for YPs, Hall of Farmers and other influential members of our profession to network and socialize in an easy atmosphere over a cocktail.<br />
<br />
Don't forget the YPC Lounge any day of the convention if you need a place to sit, bring your lunch, or meet up with other YPs.<br />
<br />
There is so much more planned for Indy and our profession that week. Hope to see you all there!<br />
<br />
-summarized from the May 2014 issue of NATA News<br />
<br />Tiffany McGuffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06098239241424015884noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946647877986416525.post-84449138589457318692014-04-22T14:33:00.002-05:002014-04-22T14:33:54.692-05:00Getting Involved<div class="MsoNormal">
There are traditional views of involvement that we have all
read about: be a member of your local, regional and national associations and
serve on committees. But is that really
it? Is that the only way to promote the profession of athletic training? There are so many ways to serve the organization on the smaller scale that we can all fit into our very busy schedules.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Surveys! Almost weekly I read an email from an athletic
training student asking me to complete a survey that will take about 5 minutes
to complete. This is a simple way to
continue to advancement in athletic training.
If everyone filled out these surveys in order to assist in research, I am
sure not only would the academic world be very appreciative, all athletic
trainers and our patients would benefit.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vote! As a member in any organization the best perk you have is
the right to vote! Make sure that you
cast your ballot at elections in your associations. And not to get political, but your vote counts
for athletic training when voting for local, state and federal elections as
well. Do your research and vote on those elected officials who support our cause (you can find all of this info through the NATA offices). Voting
is involvement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Send a letter! Once
an elected official is in office, make sure they know what you (their
constituent) want. When asked to send a
letter to your elected official, usually a letter that is already written for
you, please get involved and send it (again, these letters are already made for you on the NATA website).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Get involved at your work place! By stepping out of the
athletic training room and serving on committees and projects you are promoting
athletic training. They are plenty of
different projects going on some really need the skills of an athletic trainer, so get involved where can help. This usually reaps the best rewards because
your employer will take note! If at a high school make sure you are being
recognized as a <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Safe</st1:placename>
<st1:placename w:st="on">Sports</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">School</st1:placetype></st1:place>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Communicate! Social
media has changed the world, use it to be an involved athletic trainer. Encourage students to use social media
properly and in a way to promote what we do.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Get an NPI number, it free, easy, identifies you as a
medical professional and helps promote the profession.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be a mentor – go to NATA website for more information.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally if you want to become a committee member, sign up on
the website and/or send an email to the committee chair. Volunteer at a convention or symposium. There
are so many ways to get involved without having to invest too much time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Stephanie Nelson</div>
Tiffany McGuffinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06098239241424015884noreply@blogger.com0