Final answer:
Referring an athlete to a qualified sports medicine practitioner for a complete diagnosis of an injury is true. Specialists like orthopedists and physical therapists collaborate to treat the injury, which may range from exercise to surgery. Athletic Trainers play a key role in injury care and prevention.
Step-by-step explanation:
If an athlete sustains an injury, it is indeed true that they should be referred to a qualified sports medicine practitioner for a complete diagnosis of the injury. Sports medicine practitioners can include orthopedists who sub-specialize in treating both simple and complex injuries, ranging from a sprained ankle to a torn rotator cuff. Treatments in sports medicine may involve exercise, physical therapy, or even surgery, depending on the severity and nature of the injury.
Physical Therapists (PTs) are crucial in the rehabilitation process for muscle and joint injuries, often following an initial diagnosis by a regular doctor or an orthopedic specialist. With a master's degree or doctorate, PTs are experts in body mechanics and frequently have a specialization in sports-related injuries.
The role of an Athletic Trainer is multifaceted, involving injury prevention, immediate care, making necessary medical referrals, and rehabilitation of injured athletes. They have a comprehensive education that includes science courses like biology, chemistry, and physics, underpinning their applied knowledge in areas such as exercise physiology and kinesiology.