Therapist Unlimited Blog

 

 

The experts said with the severity of the injury it is extremely important for players to be correctly diagnosed after being hit in the head.

Dr. Patrick McCulloch with the Methodist Center for Sports Medicine in Houston explained second impact syndrome occurs when the brain swells rapidly after a person suffers a second concussion before symptoms of the first concussion have subsided.

He said while this condition is rare, the results can be catastrophic leading to permanent brain damage or even death.

McCulloch revealed it doesn’t matter how severe it is or if the second concussion occurs days or weeks after the first concussion.

McCulloch added whether it’s minor or major, a concussion interferes with brain function and can affect memory, judgment, reflexes, speech, balance and coordination.

The National Athletic Trainers’ Association says more than 65,000 concussions occur among high school football players each year, with research suggesting the number may be higher since symptoms go unreported. The fear is that some players hide their condition and coaches, not being aware, continue to let the players practice and play in games.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

McCulloch said players, coaches and parents need to understand the severity of multiple concussions.

New guidelines put forth by a panel of international neurologists states that any athlete, age 18 or younger, who was believed to have sustained a concussion during a game or practice should never be allowed back on the field the same day. The panel also recommends players need physical rest as well as cognitive rest after a concussion; limiting video games, schoolwork and other activities will help aid in the recovery.

Moreover, McCulloch said when it comes to concussions we have to think about the individual first and not about his value to the team or winning a playoff game.