NFHS Seeks to Reduce Risk of Serious Complications from Head Trauma
According to a study reported by the American Academy of Pediatrics, while high school athletes showed an overall rate of more than 4 concussions per 10,000 athletic competitions, high school football players had a much higher risk of concussion, approximately two and half times the average. In response, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has issued proposed guidelines to minimize the risk of serious health complications in high school football players.
How the NFHS Defines a Concussion
In its report, the NFHS identifies a concussion as any type of TBI (traumatic brain injury) that impedes or interrupts the normal function of the brain. The definition makes no distinction in the degree or level of impact, specifically stating that the long-accepted concepts of a “bell-ringer” or “ding” are outmoded. The report goes on to confirm that loss of consciousness is not a prerequisite to a concussion, and that any bump or blow to the head must be taken seriously.
The Proposed Response to Any Head Trauma
The NFHS proposal identifies specific indications of a potential concussion and mandates that coaches or others in charge of an athletic event immediately remove a player from competition if any of those warning signs have been observed. Coaches are not required to diagnose a concussion but must have the athlete evaluated by qualified medical personnel before allowing them to return to competition. The specific evidence of a concussion that may be observed by a coach includes:
- Clumsiness or a dazed/stunned appearance
- Confusion or uncertainty about the athletic event, including the score, the opponent, the athlete’s position or assignment
- Any evidence of short-term memory loss
- An inability to respond or an excessively slow response to questions or comments
- Mood, personality or behavioral swings
Whenever a player is removed from active competition, the following is recommended:
- Evaluation by a knowledgeable healthcare professional
- Notification of the player’s parent or guardian
- The withdrawal of the athlete from any competition for the rest of the day
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.
