Concussions in Football Players

The first scientific survey of head injuries in professional football players suggests that head trauma from the sport may lead to later neurological problems (American Academy of Neurology). According to research presented at the American Academy of Neurology's annual meeting, 60% of retired pro football players surveyed had experienced at least I concussion and 26% reported 3 or more concussions. As a group, these players were more likely to have neurological complaints, ranging from memory problems and confusion to numbness in their extremities later in life.

The results of this survey underline the importance of the testing and assessment of concussions in football players. McCrea, Kelly, et al; performed a preliminary investigation of a brief sideline examination compiled in accordance with guidelines proposed by the American Academy of Neurology. This examination was performed by three athletic trainers to 141 high school football players during games or practices. The data from this study suggest that a standardized sideline examination can be useful in detecting concussion and determining fitness to return to play.

For more information, you can refer to this study authored by McCrea M, Kelly J P, Kluge J, Ackley B, and Randolph C; in the March 1997 issue of the journal Neurology.

For more current information, you may wish to visit the web site at the following address:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2000/09/000913205911.htm

You can also visit the web site of the American Academy of Neurology at http://www.aan.com.

Stephen Bergsohn MSPT