Earlier this month, I was featured on Steve Spriester’s segment called “Spriester Sessions” on KSAT. We discussed the issue of concussions in the NFL with trainer Bay Bay McLinton. Players are beginning to realize the price they are paying later
This week 30 year old Husain Abdullah retired from the NFL. As a safety for the Kansas City Chiefs and Minnesota Vikings he has sustained 5 concussions over the past 7 seasons. Abdullah made a very reasoned decision that continuing
Hallelujah! Finally, the NFL, yes THE NFL, has admitted that there is a link between football and chronic brain injuries specifically CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy). Careful, you might be hit by a flying pig, or trampled by the horsemen of
As our summer vacations begin to wind down our thoughts turn to the upcoming school year. Invariably we create a check list to help us from forgetting something important. Pencils – check. Paper – check. Back pack – check.
Concussion Baseline Test – CHECK
Huh? Baseline concussion testing . That was never on the list before. Well it is, or should be on the list now.
In a recent article, the Wall Street Journal reported that the NCAA, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense, is undertaking a 3 year $30 million dollar study pertaining to head injuries and concussions. Of note, the NCAA has already agreed to pay $75 million to settle a class action lawsuit over concussion related claims.
As concussion research continues to become more sophisticated, we’re getting closer to developing new techniques to help identify a concussion-related disease called chronic traumatic encephalopathy or CTE.
Right now, CTE can only be diagnosed after death. But the new study offers hope that in the near future, CTE could be diagnosed earlier.
NFL Linebacker Chris Borland’s recent decision was a brave one; he walked away from a $3 million contract over the issue of concussions.
Last August, the 24-year old Borland was just starting out as a rookie linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers. During his first training camp he suffered a concussion. But he continued to play through the day and through the rookie season. Even so, the issue of concussion kept bothering him and he began researching the data. He found plenty, enough to change his mind about a career in football.
By now, most sports-minded Americans know a lot more about concussions than they did even five years ago. This awareness has led to policy and protocol changes throughout athletic organizations, from youth to professional sports. Concussion awareness has also made its way to the sports-retail market, where new football helmet add-ons claim to reduce head injuries. But do they work?
A recent study of young football players ages five to 15 years old found that proper blocking and tackling techniques along with properly fitted equipment can reduce injuries by 76 percent. It can also reduce by 57 percent, those injuries that keep players out for at least 24 hours.
Last month the Big 12 Conference announced its new policy for concussion diagnosis and management for its member institution’s student-athletes. The policy was developed by team athletic trainers, physicians and medical support staff, and approved by the board of directors.
From now on, all Big 12 member institutions will be required to follow the same concussion diagnosis and management protocol as the NCAA.