9781422285268

Pro teams have trainers and physicians on hand to quickly deal with any injuries that

happen in the games.

athlete for diagnostic tests such as an X-ray or MRI. A physician examines the results and sets up guidelines for the trainer and PT to follow to help the athlete heal and then return to the playing field in the days or weeks to come. If necessary, the doctor might refer the athlete to a surgeon. Pro and some college teams have surgeons on staff, who specialize in orthopedics and surgical procedures commonly performed on athletes. In 2013, for example, the Super Bowl-champion Seattle Seahawks had four physicians taking care of their players. With less severe injuries, physical therapists play a major role in determining treatment and measuring an athlete’s recovery. At times, if a team does not have its own physical

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