Council Bluffs Welcomes OrthoNebraska’s Sports Medicine Team for Enhanced Rodeo Contestant Care

Council Bluffs, IA – March 19, 2025 – This weekend, OrthoNebraska is set to provide sports medicine care during the Council Bluffs PRCA Rodeo.  Unlike other professional sports where athletes have dedicated team physicians and trainers, rodeo cowboys and cowgirls often face the challenges of competing without such support. OrthoNebraska is changing that narrative.

ProRodeo contestants arriving at the Mid-America Center on Friday March 21 and Saturday March 22 can self-select being seen by OrthoNebraska staff, who are volunteering their time, during the rodeo performances. “We have a dedicated group of physicians, surgeons, PAs, and other healthcare professionals that provide a number of sports medicine services to rodeo athletes. These services include orthopedics, primary care, athletic training, and physical therapy,” explained Michael Roberts, athletic trainer with OrthoNebraska.

OrthoNebraska strives to stay connected in the community.  Dr. John Buzzell is a regular on the Justin Sports Medicine team representing OrthoNebraska at rodeos.  OrthoNebraska team members wear western attire and are seen close to the bucking chutes observing the competition, and available to assist in a moment’s notice.

“Taking care of the contestants is crucial for the success of our rodeos. When cowboys know they have top-notch medical support, they can focus on their draw, ride well and perform at their best,” stated Cody Flitton, stock contractor with Big Bucks ProRodeo.

Taping ankles, icing shoulders and/or evaluating injuries from a prior mishap are part of the sports medicine team duties.

OrthoNebraska also provides preventative measures for rodeo contestants. “We make sure to review emergency protocols for injuries that could happen in the arena with emergency personnel prior to the performance. It is important to make sure all personnel involved understand the balancing act of running out to take care of an injured athlete and the need to make sure animals are contained and it is safe to do so first. We offer preventative treatments and taping for the rodeo athletes prior to the performance and offer post-injury screenings and care following the performance. Whenever we have a chance to educate the rodeo athletes on how to take care of an injury, or ways to take better care of their body, we do. The rodeo and sports medicine communities are a pretty tight-knit group. It is quite common for us to work with the athlete to identify their next rodeo and communicate with the sports medicine professionals at that event to help ensure continuity of care for them down the road,” concluded Roberts.

OrthoNebraska Sports Medicine teammates are passionate about helping cowboys and rodeo personnel.

“As a former bareback rider, I understand the physical demands and risks involved in rodeo.  Contestants greatly appreciate when a rodeo provides sports medicine onsite,” commented Greg McDonald, rodeo producer with GM Western. “Sports medicine programs have greatly added to the longevity of rodeo athlete’s careers,” emphasized McDonald.

“Being in sports medicine, we all have a desire to see athletes succeed and compete at their highest level. This is what helps drive our group. We also know that many of the competitors aren’t just competing in rodeo; they have families and jobs at home to look out for and take care of as well. Nothing brings more satisfaction than knowing that we were able to help them through an injury and get back to their livelihood and doing what they love,” explained Roberts.

The Wahoo Saddle Club PRCA Rodeo held in late July is another stop on the rodeo circuit for OrthoNebraska.  Throughout the rodeo season, contestants can frequent the OrthoNebraska Sports Medicine trailer for consultations.  “It is a great time to make new connections and catch up with everyone involved,” added Roberts.

The Council Bluffs PRCA Rodeo presented by Busch Light is under new ownership by Big Bucks ProRodeo Company from Nevada. The rough stock entries are incredible, with 36 saddle bronc riders scheduled to compete and 29 bull riders entered over two days.  There are 227 total contestants scheduled to compete.  Rodeo tickets are sold online www.councilbluffsprcarodeo.com and at the MAC box office.  All tickets are general admission so attendees can select their own seats for just $25.  All children (3-12 years old) tickets are half price, $12.50.  One ticket promotion running in the market including the Lucky4 promotion.  Buy three tickets, get one free is valid both days of the rodeo.