This play on a famous slogan seems like common sense to many. Unfortunately, until recently, kids have been allowed to continue and are sometimes even encouraged to continue playing after being injured. Some people say it creates courage, persistence, determination, toughness, success, commitment to team, etc. But this mentality and consequently allowing kids back into play too soon is extremely dangerous!
This week one of my sons suffered a significant concussion and facial injuries at a sporting practice. We went to the ER and had further evaluation during the week. What I found is that not everyone in the community is aware of the impact of concussions and especially ‘second impact syndrome’. Second impact syndrome occurs when a person gets a concussion before fully healing from the last one. This can be deadly as the brain is more vulnerable. (A recent example) This also leads to a longer recovery time and a higher risk of long term consequences.
I also found that the research & science around concussions in kids is exploding and more serious than previously thought. For example, it is not uncommon to have difficulty in school performance a month after the other symptoms from a concussion have disappeared.
There is a new law becoming the standard of care in the State of Washington for youth concussions – the Zack Lystedt Law (see video). One of the primary concerns with concussions is a players desire to return to play and a downplay of symptoms. It is important we all know the signs of concussions so we can help keep our kids safe. We also need to create a culture of speaking up for safety, even if it is not popular or against peer pressure. We can model it for our kids and have conversations with them about the consequences. We owe it to one another.
A child’s life or wellbeing is ALWAYS more important than a game. That is true sportsmanship!
Please review the symptom sheets from the :
Washington Intercollegiate Athletic Association and the CDC
Seattle Sports Concussion Program and UW/Harborview and Seattle Children’s
Tags: brain injuries, coaching, concussions, head injuries, sports injuries, Zackary's Law