EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS

Elite 7 has compiled some of the most up-to-date articles on sports medicine topics below. Check back frequently as new resources will be added. In addition you will find our Blog, with sports medicine content from some of our staff members.

EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION IN SPORT

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The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) has issued a position statement on the importance of Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) in sports to manage emergencies like cardiac arrest and head injuries. Effective EAPs require trained emergency personnel, clear communication protocols, accessible medical equipment, and pre-arranged transportation plans. Developing these plans involves collaboration among athletic trainers, coaches, and emergency services, with regular training and updates. Adhering to legal and ethical standards ensures athlete safety and reduces liability. The comprehensive guideline highlights the need for well-developed and practiced EAPs for overall safety in sports.

To learn more visit: https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-0521.23

UPDATES TO MANAGEMENT OF SPORTS-RELATED CONCUSSION:

The National Athletic Trainers' Association released a bridge statement to update the management of sports related concussion. Among the recommendations are: immediate initial relative rest (24 - 48 hours) followed by symptom-limited cognitive and physical activity as well as symptom-tolerated aerobic exercise and clinician directed actives as directed; return-to-play protocols should be individualized and focus on symptom resolution, have graduated stages, and emphasize a multidimensional approach to recovery; a return-to-learn progression should be implemented using a collaborative approach involving school personnel, medical providers, and families to ensure proper support and monitoring of students with a sport-related-concussion.

To learn more visit: https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-0046.22

HAMSTRING STRAIN INJURY REHABILITATION

Hamstring strains are a common injury among athletes of all ages and often require rehabilitation and potentially some missed time before returning to sport. The goal of rehabilitation is not only to decrease pain and increase strength, but to minimize the risk of reinjury. Return to sport is usually achieved within a few weeks, but athlete performance may be impaired and reinjury rates tend to be higher. This article looks at the mechanism of injury and how to progress through the rehabilitation process while safely and effectively loading the hamstring.

To learn more visit: https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-0707.20