School-Sports-and-Concussions~~element25(ARA) – As days appear shorter and cooler weather sets in, the excitement of team sports heats up. As coaches, teachers, parents and team members prepare themselves for the season, it’s important that they are also prepared to handle possible serious injuries often associated with sports, like concussions.

Recently, The NFL decided to change its rules on helmet-to-helmet contact in an effort to reduce the number and severity of concussions suffered by players. And, Dr. Todd E. Grime, of Northtowns Orthopedics cautions that, “Head injuries also happen at much lower levels of play, and can be just as serious.” He says, “It’s important for coaches and parents to be aware of the care that is required before returning athletes to a game or practice especially if they may have suffered a sports concussion.”

Signs of a concussion that can be observed during a game or practice include behavior or personality change, false or imagined memories, loss of consciousness, empty stare and disorientation. Athletes may also report blurry vision, confusion, dizziness, feeling hazy, foggy or groggy, and headache following a concussion.

Some states have passed laws on managing concussions. In New York, the Concussion Management Awareness Act now requires coaches to immediately pull athletes off the field if it appears that they have suffered a possible concussion. It also requires public school districts to create a concussion management team to oversee implementation of the state regulations. If you are a coach or parent of a younger athlete, it is important to be aware of these laws.

Two online safety courses that offer help in recognizing the signs of concussion and what to do if a player gets a head injury during a game are available at www.aan.com/concussion. Each 20-minute course is free and a printable certificate is available after passing the online quiz.

Coaches Cards are also downloadable from the American Academy of Neurology’s website and provide information on how to spot a concussion and what to do if a player experiences one. It is also a good idea for coaches and players to keep these cards with their athletic gear for easy access.

Dr. Grime says, “If for any reason you suspect an athlete has a concussion, remove the athlete from play and make certain the athlete is carefully evaluated by a person trained in concussion management. Rushing this part of the process may lead to a serious setback, or worsen the injury.”

High school and youth sporting events are a wonderful way to engage youth athletes in the activities they love. But, head injuries can be serious, and addressing them very carefully help to ensure that young athletes will return to the field safely for many more games that they will enjoy both now and in the future.

WNY Resource:

Northtowns Orthopedics is located in East Amherst, Ellicottville, Kenmore and Williamsville. Todd E. Grime, M.D. is fellowship trained in Primary Care Sports Medicine with extensive experience in the management of various orthopedic disorders, particularly those involving athletes at the high school and collegiate level. For more information, or to make an appointment with Dr. Grime call 716-204-2550.