Certified Athletic Trainers | Helping Local Athletes Stay in the Game
March 4, 2024
For many athletes in the Upper Peninsula, the winter and spring months mean spending more time in the gym, hockey rink, track, or ski hill—participating in the sport they enjoy. Regardless of proper preparation, like warm-up routines or well-fitting equipment, there’s always an inherent risk of injury when participating in sports. If an injury does occur, athletic trainers at UP Health System – Portage are here to ensure all local athletes remain safe and, if possible, stay in the game.
Athletic trainers are highly skilled healthcare professionals who work to execute plans to address issues such as emergency and preventative care, environmental conditions, and facility and equipment safety. They also provide free injury screens—like for concussions— for all types of athletes in the community.
Common conditions treated are:
- Sprains and strains
- Muscle tears
- Stress fractures
- Tendonitis
- Knee ligament tears – anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL)
- Concussions
- Heat-related illnesses
UP Health System – Portage is proud to provide certified athletic training services to several local universities, schools, clubs and events. Trainers work alongside coaches, physicians, parents and school administration to provide the safest environment for all student-athletes. They help oversee injury prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation.
Injury prevention procedures include:
- Assessing athletes for risk factors – poor technique or muscle imbalances
- Strengthening muscle and/or joints
- Teaching proper technique during cardio
- Encouraging warm-ups and cool-downs
- Proper hydration, rest and nutrition recommended
Maria in action during a local high school hockey game.
“The best part about my job is working with a variety of athletes at many levels to ensure they remain healthy and safe while playing the sport they love,” said Maria Normand, certified athletic trainer, at UP Health System – Portage. “We are often the first to intervene when an injury does happen and we ensure their rehabilitation plan meets their needs and gives them the ability to return safely to the game.”
As you continue playing your sport this month and beyond, UP Health System – Portage athletic trainers will be with you every step of the way. When it comes to safety, healing and prevention, choose caregivers who treat you like family. Choose care you can rely on.
For more information on athletic training services at UP Health System – Portage, visit UPHealthSystem.com.