After a long winter, young athletes are often eager to engage in springtime sports. However, along with the competitive spirit comes an increased risk of concussions and other head injuries. Concussions occur when a blow or jolt to the head causes the brain to jostle inside the skull. While most are mild, even a minor injury can lead to serious consequences if left untreated.
Research shows that the rate of concussions in high school sports has increased by 87 percent since 1985, and springtime sports tend to present higher risks of brain impacts. Some of the more common sports where head injuries occur include:
- Baseball: Pitchers are at risk of being hit by a line drive, while batters can get beaned with a pitch.
- Lacrosse: Helmets and other protective gear are required, but collisions during gameplay can still result in head injuries.
- Soccer: Intense headers and collisions can lead to concussions on the field.
How to Lower the Risk of Concussions
To protect players and minimize head injuries during spring sports, consider the following strategies:
- Wear the right protective gear: Ensure helmets are sport-specific, fit correctly, and meet safety standards. Helmets are crucial in baseball and lacrosse, where hard objects frequently come into play.
- Train on safe techniques: Regularly practice proper techniques, such as how to safely head a soccer ball or fall without hitting your head. Coaches should emphasize training that minimizes risky behaviors.
- Enforce strict rules: Enforce penalties for dangerous plays and promote sportsmanship. Understanding that aggressive, reckless actions increase injury risk is key to creating a safer environment.
- Recognize and respond to concussions: Know the signs of a concussion, such as dizziness, headaches, confusion, and nausea. If a player is suspected of having a concussion, they should be removed from play immediately and evaluated by a medical professional.
The Importance of Not Returning Too Soon
Returning to play too early after a concussion can have devastating consequences, including prolonging recovery or causing second-impact syndrome. Athletes should only resume activity once they have been cleared by a healthcare provider. Rest, both physical and mental, is essential for recovery.
If you or a loved one suffers a concussion or other TBI during spring sports due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys to discuss your case and protect your rights.
