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Medical Terms

A.T.C.

Athletic Trainer Certified; athletic trainers with this designation have passed the certification exam administered by the National Athletic Trainers' Association (N.A.T.A.).

Abduct

Movement of any extremity away from the midline of the body. This action is achieved by an abductor muscle

Abrasion

Any injury which rubs off the surface of the skin.

Abscess

An infection which produces pus; can be the result of a blister, callus, penetrating wound or laceration.

AC Joint

Acromioclavicular joint; joint of the shoulder where acromion process of the scapula and the distal end of the clavicle meet; most shoulder separations occur at this point.

Adduct

Movement of an extremity toward the midline of the body. This action is achieved by an adductor muscle.

Adhesion

Abnormal adherence of collagen fibers to surrounding structures during immobilization following trauma or as a complication of surgery which restricts normal elasticity of the structures involved.

Aerobic

Exercise in which energy needed is supplied by oxygen inspired and is required for sustained periods of vigorous exercise with a continually high pulse rate.

Anabolic Steroids

Steroids that promote tissue growth by creating protein in an attempt to enhance muscle growth. The main anabolic steroid is testosterone (male sex hormone).

Anaerobic

Exercise without the use of oxygen as an energy source; short bursts of vigorous exercise.

Anaphylactic Shock

Shock that is caused by an allergic reaction.

Anterior

In front of; the front surface of.

Anterior Compartment Syndrome

Condition in which swelling within the anterior compartment of the lower leg jeopardizes the viability of muscles, nerves and arteries that serve the foot. In severe cases, emergency surgery is necessary to relieve the swelling and pressure.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)

A primary stabilizing ligament within the center of the knee joint that prevents hyper extension and excessive rotation of the joint. A complete tear of the ACL necessitating reconstruction could require up to 12 months of rehabilitation.

Anterior Talofibular Ligament

A ligament of the ankle that connects the fibula (lateral ankle bone) to the talus. This ligament is oft times subject to sprain.

Anti-Inflammatory

Any agent which prevents inflammation, such as aspirin or ibuprofen.

Arteriogram

A film demonstrating arteries after the injection of a dye.

Arthrogram

X-ray technique for joints using air and/or dye injected into the affected area; useful in diagnosing meniscus tears of the knee and rotator cuff tears of the shoulder.

Arthroscope

An instrument used to visualize the interior of a joint cavity.

Arthroscopy

A surgical examination of the internal structures of a joint by means of viewing through an arthroscope. An arthroscopic procedure can be used to remove or repair damaged tissue or as a diagnostic procedure in order to inspect the extent of any damage or confirm a diagnosis.