PFATS: Question & Answer

Want to know what it's like to work as an athletic trainer in the NFL? Have a question about a particular sports injury, rehabilitation program or nutrition supplement? Need help understanding the right way to hydrate before, during and after practices and games? Click here to send us your questions. In the meantime, check out the questions and answers below.

Do you know of any evidence for wearing neck rolls post-concussion as a preventative measure against future concussions?
Submitted by T. Allen, Austin, TX

Does providing ankle braces to basketball and football players with healthy ankles; 1) weaken supporting structures due to immobilization, 2) affect performance, 3) cause related injuries such as high ankle sprains?
Submitted by J. Stutzenburg, Burlington, NJ

How do you determine an injured player's status for an upcoming game?
Submitted by J. Wulf, , FL

I always see players drinking Gatorade during games and practices? Why is that?
Submitted by S. Masel, Chicago, IL

I am a high school ATC with my first football player with a partial PCL tear. What is your treatment/rehab procedure for an isolated PCL injury (non-operative)? Do you advocate immobilization at all in the early stages? How long, on average, until the football player can return to full activities?
Submitted by D. Jessup, Brownsberg, IN

I am currently a senior athletic training student working with a Big Ten Fooball team and I am interested in possibly one day working for an NFL team, but how feasible is this dream, considering the fact that I am a woman?
Submitted by C. Long, Bloomington, IN

I would like to know your views on ankle spatting. The majority of our football players do it for looks. I am trying to find ways to eliminate ankle spatting unless needed. Thanks for your help.
Submitted by J. Nelson, Sioux Falls, SD

Is there any physiological evidence to support the use of vinegar (pickle juice, mustard, etc.) for the treatment of heat cramps?
Submitted by S. Weedon, Montgomery, AL

My son is a high school lineman and he has been wearing an inexpensive pair of knee braces which are hurting his knees. We consulted his orthopedic doctor who said braces wont necessarily prevent an injury. Is this the case and should we invest in a good pair?
Submitted by S. Davis, Greensboro, AR

What is the best way to treat a minor injury like a sprained ankle or a pulled muscle?
Submitted by T. Kelly, Austin, TX

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