Concussions that lead to TBI can have permanent detrimental effects. Therapy can help.
By now you may have heard the news that former NFL Dallas Cowboys players are suing the NFL over concussions that lead to more serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The suit has been filed because the players state that the NFL ignored the link between concussions and permanent brain injuries that have lead to dementia and other issues later on in life.
According to the article Ex-Cowboys sue over concussions on ESPN.com, the suit states, “The bottom line is that the NFL has put its profits ahead of the health and well-being of its players.” The NFL, in contrast, states that player safety has long been a priority and by no means did they ever mislead players, stating that the suit has no merit.
How the suit is settled is going to be up to the courts, however we as physical and occupational therapists as well as athletic trainers know how serious concussions really are. There is no such thing as a “minor” concussion. TBI, or Traumatic Brain Injury can lead to cognitive, emotional, behavioral and physical impairments that can be permanent.
It is our job to get the message out to all athletes young and old about the potential dangers of concussion, the proper way to handle one once they occur and when to recommend when an athlete can return to the field.
Learn more about post concussion syndrome and literature based guidelines for re-entry to sports and daily activity from TBI expert Leslie Davidson.
ERI offers her course: Traumatic Brain Injury: Maximizing Functional Outcomes
March 22-23, 2013 – Fairfax, VA
April 5-6, 2013 – White Plains, NY
- How do you get the message out to your community about the potential dangers of concussions?
- Is your community open to receiving input from you, the therapist? We recognize that there are regional differences and would like to hear your experience in this arena.