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In 2015, a federal judge approved a settlement that will compensate thousands of former NFL players and their family members for concussions and related injuries. The class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of retired NFL players, who accused the league of failing to protect players from the risk of concussion. The original settlement called for a total payout of more than $870 million and outlined plans for funding medical research and education programs. The NFL takes concussion seriously and as fans, coaches, parents and players, we should too. A concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury that occurs as a result of rapid acceleration, which causes the brain to bounce off the walls of the skull. The sudden impact causes damage to brain cells, which leaves the injured player more vulnerable to further injury, until fully recovered. Most concussions resolve quickly and without long-term consequences; however, repetitive injury can have serious effects. Repetitive traumatic brain injury has been associated with long-term risk for Parkinson’s disease, ALS and dementia. Concussions may be associated with a “big hit” or loss of consciousness. More often, the signs and symptoms of concussion are less obvious. The athlete may appear dazed, with or without loss of consciousness. He or she may move slowly or have poor balance. He or she may respond slowly to questions, be unable to follow instructions or recall events leading up to or following the play. He or she may report a headache, nausea or blurred vision. Mild symptoms can be monitored while the athlete is resting at home, but more severe or progressive symptoms should prompt an urgent medical evaluation. Once an athlete exhibits the symptoms of concussion, he or she may be at risk for further injury. A safe return can be expected within about one week; however, younger athletes may take longer to recover fully. The focus should be on
The Facts About Concussions increasing the athlete’s activity at a pace that allows return to sport without recurrence of symptoms. As a physician who treats injured athletes, I believe the health benefits gained from sports participation far outweigh the risk for injury. However, we should look for ways to minimize injuries to keep our players safe. Parents and coaches should encourage
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good techniques for blocking and tackling. Athletes should have properly fitted helmets and protective equipment. If there is concern that a concussion may have occurred, the player should be removed from play and return to sport only under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Finally, when in doubt, play it safe and sit them out.
Eric C. Stiefel, MD * • Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon affiliated with SGMC • Sports Medicine Physician with Valdosta Orthopedic Associates • Graduate of the Medical College of Georgia • Orthopaedic Internship and Residency at the University of Florida • Fellowship Trained in Sports Medicine at the Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center (MSMOC) and Tulane University • Health Policy Fellow of the Arthroscopy Association of North America
* Some or all of the health care professionals performing services in this hospital are independent contractors and are not hospital agents or employees. Independent contractors are responsible for their own actions, and the hospital shall not be liable for the acts or omissions of any such independent contractors.