Adjustment of rules in sports. In
order for this strategy to be effective,
there needs to be active cooperation
among athletes, coaches and officials.
Overall, research shows that modifications
in rules such as body checking
techniques in hockey, can reduce
concussions in some sports.
Other preventative strategies include:
• HEADGEAR: Strict usage of protective
equipment such as helmets.
• MOUTH GUARDS: Mouth guards
are thought to reduce severity of the
concussion by absorbing some of the
shock to the face and reducing the
force that is transferred to the base
of the skull. Although there is some
evidence suggesting this reduces the
impact of the concussion, additional
research needs to be done.
• NECK MUSCLE TRAINING: This
has been recommended as a mechanism
to possibly reduce the impact to
the brain from direct hits to the head.
• SPORTS SURFACES: Adjusting the
surface the athletes play on could
decrease the impact of head injuries.
• LAW AND PUBLIC POLICY: In
2009, Washington state passed a law
related to concussions and now requires
education and training about
the risks of concussions. In addition,
the law requires that an athlete
with a concussion be removed from
further participation in the sport
and the individual must get medical
clearance prior to being allowed to
compete again.
CONCLUSIONS
Additional research needs to be
conducted, but preventative measures
need to be taken to minimize young
athletes getting concussions. More
resources should be dedicated to
developing programs that educate all
individuals involved in impact sports.
BERRIES! Berries are packed
d
ative
with beneficial vitamins,
minerals, fiber and antioxidants.
Their strong antioxidant properties
can contribute to reducing
the risk of heart disease,
cancer and other inflammatory
conditions. They may also be
in
effective treating various digestive and
immune-related disorders when
used with traditional medical
therapies.
COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE DIGEST • JUL–SEP 2019 | WWW.CHDIGEST.COM 9
/WWW.CHDIGEST.COM