Clinical Foundations of Athletic Training and Sports Medicine

Clinical Foundations of Athletic Training and Sports Medicine, Second Edition, builds upon an undergraduate understanding of health and exercise sciences to instill an evidence-based, graduate-level knowledge of best practices in athletic training and health care. The full-color text is supported by research, medical guidelines, and National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) statements, and it aligns with the 2020 Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) standards (updated in December 2025). Formerly titled Athletic Training and Therapy: Foundations of Behavior and Practice, the revised title reflects a renewed focus on the practical skills that prepare students to provide high-quality patient care. Contemporary concepts not often found in other introductory texts—such as cultural literacy, interprofessional practice, administrative management, and special populations—are presented to give students comprehensive knowledge of the field. Students will explore the breadth of athletic training and sports medicine, from mental health and nutrition guidelines to guidance for treating military populations. Throughout the text, sidebars highlight important information regarding evidence-based practice and foundational skills. Clinical Application boxes further contextualize the content for students with real-world situations. The second edition of Clinical Foundations of Athletic Training and Sports Medicine contains a wealth of updates:A new section on AI usage in health care helps students understand the ethical implications and real-world application of these new technologies. An expanded chapter on mental health allows students to build knowledge and apply a holistic approach to patient care. More information is provided on nutritional needs and how they differ between male and female patients. Information on safety regulations has been updated, including new coverage of neck lacerations in hockey. Students will gain access to online tools such as flash cards and the Athletic Training Clinical Resource, which contains essential information such as normal lab values, vital sign norms, ICD 10 and CPT code lists, and approved medical abbreviations. As a leading information provider in athletic training, Human Kinetics is known for high-quality educational texts. The first edition of Clinical Foundations of Athletic Training and Sports Medicine was featured on the Board of Certification (BOC) exam reference list for multiple years. A cross-sectional study published in Athletic Training Education Journal identified the text as demonstrating the most diverse patient and clinician image representation from among 20 textbooks. Clinical Foundations of Athletic Training and Sports Medicine, Second Edition, offers a broad, competency-based educational foundation for graduate students in athletic training. The text highlights current concepts and the need to enhance team-based care, with an emphasis on the foundational knowledge students will need to successfully complete the BOC certification exam.