During the past few months, there has been a major media storm of concussion reports on the newly found dangers of concussion in contact sports, from the high-profile sports of football and hockey, to lacrosse, soccer, wrestling, MMA, basketball and even skiing. Unfortunately, both the fan and player culture in many of these sports, especially football and hockey, have historically been promoted through dramatic hits and gladiator style moments making them slow to change. Some say, even challenging the sports’ culture.
As the sports’ community experience concussion culture shock, many experts are seeking a magic bullet for the best concussion solution:
The House of Representatives recently voted to set federal guidelines to manage the serious issue of concussion amongst student-athletes. Medical experts are accelerating research, offering new evidence and statistics. Athletes are finally talking about their concussion experiences as a true injury, sharing what it feels like both physically as well as emotionally, including depression. Organizations such as the NFL and USA Football are enforcing new safety rules and sizeable penalties.
However the science is far from conclusive. Despite the progress outlined, there is still much to be done to solve the concussion crisis. Although a far cry from a death march for contact sports, all these “magic bullets” may mark a shift in how sports were once played and the start of a new awareness for keeping athletes “brain-healthy”. This of course should be viewed as good news and in several years, we may look back at 2010 as a critical juncture and positive turning point.
For all that are passionate about sports, whether you’re a parent of an athlete or an athlete yourself, take to heart what we now know about concussions:
1. An athlete should not be participating if he or she is still experiencing symptoms from a concussion. If you suspect one, have it checked out by a physician. Be as aware of concussion symptoms just as you would any possible serious illness. Consider baseline cognitive concussion testing.
2. Talk freely about concussions, and help promote a new culture of keeping the brain healthy for life. It’s no longer cool to stay in the game and tough it out; rather, when in doubt, sit it out.
3. Be your own consumer advocate, and be wary of any equipment manufacturer that promises concussion claims without sufficient evidence.
Stay involved in the concussion conversation, there’s still more to learn. What would be more shocking would be to do nothing at all.
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