Brain injuries are an intense condition that have long-term effects on an physical and mental health. Although mild brain injuries will cause temporary headaches, confusion and dizziness, severe brain injuries can lead to permanent disability or death. Symptoms can also include cognitive and emotional symptoms such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and changes in mood or behaviour.
Treatments for these brain injuries have been developed to ensure individuals experience full recovery preventing more long-term brain damage. There are a variety of treatments depending on the severity of the injury and the specific symptoms present such as medication to help manage mental symptoms (pain or depression) or physical or speech therapy may be recommended to help improve mobility and communication skills. Precautions are now being put in place to prevent concussions in sports. One of the most important ways to prevent concussions is by wearing properly fitting and appropriate protective gear, such as helmets or mouthguards. Different rules and regulations are also made in sports including dangerous or illegal moves that may lead to head injuries; these rules and regulations are crucial to follow.
Many former athletes are being diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy neuropathological change (CTE-NC) raising concerns about the potential long-term consequences of concussions. CTE-NC is a degenerative neurological disease associated with multiple head injuries and trauma. “Further research is required to understand the prevalence of CTE-NC in athletic cohorts and the factors that predispose some athletes to the development of CTE-NC following exposure to RHT.” Prospective studies, which control for potential confounding variables, are required to improve our understanding of CTE-NC and why some individuals are susceptible.
Some strategies that are beginning to take place include: Education, rule changes, proper equipment use, strengthening exercises, safe playing techniques, rest and recovery, as well as monitoring.
Individuals should be provided with proper education when wanting to participate in sports. Coaches, athletes, and parents should be educated on the signs and symptoms of concussions and the importance of reporting suspected concussions to a healthcare professional. Sports organisations suggest rule changes to decrease the risk of head injuries such as prohibiting hits to the head or reducing contact in practice. Wearing appropriate and protective equipment such as helmets, mouthguards, and padding are essential to reducing the risk of concussion. Safe playing techniques is a term describing safe and appropriate ways to play a game preventing head injuries. Athletes who have sustained a concussion during sport, it is important for them to allow proper rest and recovery time before returning to play overall reducing the risk of further injury. It is also ideal for coaches, trainers, and healthcare professionals to be monitoring athletes from the sidelines during any play.