In order to demonstrate knowledge of the practice of athletic training, to think critically about the practices involved in athletic training, including the ability to integrate knowledge, skill and behavior, and to assume professional responsibility, the entry-level certified athletic trainer must plan, implement, document, and evaluate, the efficacy of therapeutic modalities in the treatment of injuries to and illnesses of their patients.

The cognitive and psychomotor competencies and clinical proficiency should encompass multiple methods of therapeutic modalities in the following categories:

• Infrared modalities
• Electrical stimulation modalities
• Therapeutic ultrasound
• Mechanical modalities
• Massage and other manual treatment techniques

The use of leaning objectives and outcomes in therapeutic modalities ensures that the student is able to:

Psychomotor Competencies

1. Assess patient to identify indications, contraindications, and precautions applicable to the application of therapeutic modalities.
2. Obtain and interpret baseline and posttreatement objective physical measurements to evaluate and interpret results.
3. Inspect the therapeutic modalities and treatment environment for potential safety hazards.
4. Position and prepare the patient for the application of therapeutic modalities.
5. Select and apply appropriate therapeutic modalities according to evidence-based guidelines.
6. Document treatment goals, expectations, and treatment outcomes.

Clinical Proficiencies
Synthesize information obtained in a patient interview and physical examination to determine the indications, contradictions and precautions for the selection, patient set-up, and evidence-based application of therapeutic modalities for acute and chronic injuries. The student will formulate a progressive treatment and rehabilitation plan and appropriately apply the modalities. Effective lines of communications should be established to elicit and convey information about the patient's status and the prescribed modality(s). While maintaining patient confidentiality, all aspects of the treatment plan should be documented using standardized record-keeping methods.