Athletico Athletic Trainers Kick Off 2012-13 Season with Annual Fall Meeting
Athletico Physical Therapy, the largest privately owned employer of athletic trainers, kicked off the 2012-13 athletic season with their annual fall athletic training meeting. Athletico athletic trainer’s convened at Toyota Park, home of the Chicago Fire, to prepare for fall camps beginning at their schools. The events of the night were as follows:
Athletico University: Internal Injuries in Sports, Presented by Dr. Beverlee Brisbin of MidAmerica Orthopaedic Clinic
Dr. Brisbin reviewed with the AT staff the etiology and incidence of internal injuries as well as discussed common internal injuries, including the signs and symptoms of pulmonary contusions, pneumothorax, stenoclavicular, rib, cardiac contusion, commotio cordis, abdominal injuries to the liver and spleen, testicular trauma, and sports hernia.
Athletico Concussion Policy Updates and Review, Presented by Michael Palm, MS, MBA, ATC
Athletico’s Concussion Special Interest Chair, Mike Palm, led the discussion on Athletico’s Concussion Policy for the staff ATs. He reviewed the importantance of prevention and education and reminded the athletic trainers to recognize that there is no equipment or activity that can completely prevent concussion. Mouth guards are proven to successfully prevent dental and maxillofacial injuries, however there is no evidence to support that they prevent concussions. Athletico athletic trainers will work with school administration to ensure proper education for coaches surrounding concussions. Our athletic trainers will work with the affiliate and team physician to ensure they are within accordance with the Illinois Concussion Law.
Hydration Review, Presented by Monique Ryan, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN, Personal Nutrition Designs Monique Ryan and Gatorade were on hand to review nutrition recommendations for pre-, during, and post-exercise. 
Spine boarding and Helmet Removal Review, Presented by John L. Honcharuk, ATC, CSCS
Athletico ATs reviewed their skills to successfully and safely transport an athlete with a potential injury to the spine. The ATs successfully practice both the log roll (LR) and lift-and-slide (LS) techniques and determined which of the techniques are best and will place them into their Emergency Action Plan (EAP). ATs were encouraged to present and formally train with their local EMS to ensure the highest quality care possible for the injured spine patient.
