When people hear the term “athletic therapist” they often picture a professional working on the
sidelines of a sports game, tending to injured athletes. While this image isn’t entirely inaccurate,
it barely scratches the surface of what athletic therapists do and who can benefit from their
expertise. The reality is that athletic therapists are skilled professionals who offer valuable
services to a much broader audience than just athletes.
The Scope of Athletic Therapy
Athletic therapists specialize in the prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation of
musculoskeletal injuries. Anyone with a muscle, bone, or joint issue can benefit from their skills.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a desk-bound office worker, or someone recovering from
surgery, athletic therapists can help you manage pain, improve mobility, and return to your
normal activities.
Whether it’s Injury Prevention or Rehabilitation
Athletic therapists are also instrumental is in injury preventions and enhancing performance,
even for those not involved in competitive sports. Poor posture, improper lifting techniques, or
even repetitive strain from daily tasks can result in injuries. Athletic therapists can identify risk
factors and offer practical advice and exercises to help you avoid these common pitfalls.
Injury rehabilitation is another area where athletic therapists excel. Following an injury, they can
help control pain and guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program. Their holistic approach
considers not just the injured area but how the injury affects your entire body.
A Resource for Everyone
The bottom line is that athletic therapists are a valuable resource for everyone, not just athletes.
Here at Apple Creek Sports Medicine Centre, there are two Certified Athletic Therapists on staff,
Stef Moser and Brett Nagata. Their training allows them to address a wide range of
musculoskeletal issues, prevent injuries, and help people of all ages and activity levels achieve
their health and wellness goals. Whether you’re dealing with a specific injury, looking to improve
your performance in a particular activity, or simply want to maintain an active lifestyle, one of
them would be happy to offer the guidance and support you need.
Next time you think about athletic therapy, remember that it’s not just for athletes—it’s for
anyone who wants to move better, feel better, and live better.
Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you’re experiencing pain or musculoskeletal issues, please consult with a qualified manual physiotherapist or healthcare professional for personalized assessment and treatment.
About the Author:
Brett Nagata began his career by studying and designing orthotics and prosthetics, which introduced him to the world of adaptive sports. His interest gradually shifted toward rehabilitation medicine, leading him to further his education in athletic therapy and physiotherapy (UK).
Read more about him here.
