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Using artificial intelligence in athletic training

This is an excerpt from Evidence-Based Practice in Athletic Training 2nd Edition With HKPropel Access by Scot Raab,Naoko Giblin.

Artificial Intelligence Benefit to Athletic Training

AI algorithms can predict injury risk by analyzing data from remote sensors and motion capture systems that monitor biomechanical changes. This allows an AT to adjust a training or treatment plan to create safer environments. AI can also analyze data on concussive hits and flag concerns based on preset parameters. These enable ATs to work proactively and foster safer environments for patients. Proactive tools combined with tools like ChatGPT to search for EBP articles and using speech-to-text software can help to improve the care provided to patients more quickly. 

ATs can further expand beyond ChatGPT and use more robust tools to enhance their EBP clinical question searches, such as the following: 

• Laser AI, which helps organize and distill large volumes of information, making it easier to focus on relevant studies
• Distiller AI, which automates portions of the systematic review process, such as screening and data extraction, to improve efficiency
• Covidence, a widely used tool for conducting systematic reviews, simplifies the management of citations and study selection
• Nested Knowledge, which enhances collaboration and visualization of research findings, supporting deeper analysis and understanding

ATs can use AI to help with EBP searches. The results of EBP searches using AI, ­similar to other tools, will improve with experience. The more detailed the stem question, the more likely the result will be meaningful. Here are some sample prompts:

• Summarize this journal article (name article) for me.
• What is the specificity and sensitivity of the (name) test?
• Find three journal articles published this year about ACL reconstruction rehabilitation, and list the most supported exercise for increasing quadriceps strength immediately post-op.
• I am interested in learning about the latest concussion treatments. Identify five webinars about this topic that are available in 2025.

With any case of AI use, ATs must be able to appraise if the given information is accurate and applicable. This is especially important in athletic training and ­athletic health care. When using AI applications, you must consider the questions you ask, the data sources from which information is gathered, and the ­applicability of ­AI-generated insights for actual patients. AI can be a very powerful and resourceful tool as part of EBP in today’s fast-paced society. It is imperative that an AT continues to sharpen their EBP skills to interpret AI-generated information and optimally utilize it in clinical ­decision-making. 

By leveraging these AI tools, ATs can elevate the standard of care they provide to patients. Whether through predictive analytics for injury prevention, rapid access to EBP resources, or streamlined documentation processes, AI helps reduce workloads while enhancing clinical effectiveness. By staying informed about emerging AI ­technologies and their applications, ATs can continue to integrate these ­advancements into their practice and create better outcomes for patients.

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