Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in sports are common themes of discussion among coaches, parents, and students. The spotlight on these injuries has broadened awareness levels within different populations. In 2017, an estimated 2.5 million high school students reported having at least one sports- or physical activity-related…

Context: Recognition and evaluation of injuries/illnesses accounts for the greatest percentage (24%) of an athletic trainer's responsibilities as a clinician. When teaching orthopedic evaluation, we often emphasize history taking and special/ligamentous tests to achieve a diagnosis. Because of its complexity and variability, palpation becomes an…

Reviews past and present views of the working relationship between a school's nurse and athletic trainer and discusses the author's own study which revealed that, compared to trainers, school nurses possess insufficient knowledge to assume adequate injury management. Offers a sample job description for a head athletic trainer. (WD)

Sports participation can help young people appreciate health, exercise, and fitness; learn about themselves and handling adversity; and experience teamwork and sportsmanship. The key to a good high-school sports program is not winning, but student improvement. Athletic participation and achievement should not determine kids' social status. (MLH)