Laura M Mertz, MS, ATC, CSCS

Laura Mertz is a certified athletic trainer and a certified strength and conditioning specialist. She received her bachelor's degree in athletic training from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and her master's degree in athletic training from Indiana University. Laura is also certified in the Graston Technique, an instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization treatment technique. Laura's master's thesis was chosen by the IU graduate athletic training program faculty to receive an award that is given annually to the graduating master's degree student whose thesis is an outstanding research project in design and concept of a clinically relevant sports medicine question. Prior to joining the Nationwide Children's Hospital's Sports Medicine staff, Laura served as the athletic trainer for Indiana University Ballet Theater within the prestigious Jacobs School of Music where she cared for over 40 ballet majors. Laura has a passion for working in the performing arts and providing artists with the same level of care that athletes receive. She is excited to be involved in developing the Dance Medicine Program at Nationwide Children's Hospital and looks forward to the challenges this venture will present. When she's not working, Laura enjoys traveling, riding her bicycle on bike paths, and playing piano and violin.

Gender:

• Female

Languages Spoken:

• English

• Performing Arts Medicine

Undergraduate School

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln
  Date Completed: 05/09/2009

Graduate School

• Indiana University
  Date Completed: 05/06/2011

Department:

• Sports Medicine

Date of Appointment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital:

• 09/26/2011

2009–2011

• Indiana University Ballet Theater, Athletic Trainer