New, stricter rules have come into effect for the NFL (National Football League) to address the ongoing issue of players going into the game or returning to practice after suffering major head injuries.
The new policy standards, developed by the concussion committee, team doctors, outside medical experts and the NFL Players Association, state, “Once removed for the duration of practice or game, the player should not be considered for return to football activities until he is fully asymptotic, both at rest and after exertion, has a normal neurological examination, normal neuropshychological testing and has been cleared to return by both his team physician and the independent neurological consultant.”
The new policy has also expanded the symptoms that would preclude a player from returning to a game or practice on the same day. It now includes:
*Being unable to remember assignments or plays, or any other signs of confusion
*Gap in memory
*Abnormal neurological examination, including abnormal pupillary response, persistent dizziness or vertigo and abnormal balance on sideline testing
*New and persistent headache, especially if accompanied by sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting
*Loss of consciousness
These new “Return To Play” rules have been made because studies by The Associated Press have show that nearly one-fifth of the 160 NFL players have hidden or played-down the effects of concussions they got during practices or games. Philadelphia wide receiver DeSean Jackson is no exception.
Jackson recently suffered his second concussion in less than a year after a helmet to helmet hit with Atlanta Falcons defensive back Dunta Robinson. While helmet to helmet hits are illegal in the NFL, they are unfortunately a common occurrence in NFL games making concussions common occurrences as well. Jackson was clearly dazed after his hit and was eventually helped off the field by coaches and trainers but will be out of the game for at least a week, maybe more.
The fact that he has suffered multiple concussions during his career has led to memory loss and will perhaps lead to more injuries down the line. If and when DeSean comes back to the game, he will be sporting a new helmet made by Schutt designed to diminish the risk of concussion through impact-absorbing technologies. The combination of the new “Return To Play” regulations and the helmet will work to prevent long-term injury among players, the risk will still be there for intense concussions as long as the game stays the same.
Players have really become more aware of the seriousness of concussions of late and how they can effect not only their profession, but also their lives. Concussions can have a negative impact down the line, so it is vital to protect players against that risk.
The new “Return To Play” concussion rules show that the NFL are working on player safety, and that along with improved equipment, better player and coach education and the change of rules to prevent head to head impact will hopefully make football a safer game for players. Only time will tell if these precautions are enough to prevent serious injury and improve the player’s long-term health.