What we all need to know about concussions

Although concussions are rare at the youth football level, we should all be aware of what a concussion is and what causes it.  The brain is made of soft tissue and is cushioned by spinal fluid. It is encased in the hard, protective skull. When a person gets a head injury, the brain can slosh around inside the skull and even bang against it. This can lead to bruising of the brain, tearing of blood vessels, and injury to the nerves. When this happens, a person can get a concussion – a temporary loss of normal brain function. Most people with concussions recover just fine with appropriate treatment. But it’s important to take proper steps if you suspect a concussion because it can be serious.

What are the signs and symptoms?

The signs of concussion are not always well recognized and because of that, people may put themselves at risk for another injury by returning to action before they have been properly diagnosed.     

Symptoms of a concussion may include:

• “Seeing stars”

• Trouble remembering things, such as what happened directly before and after the injury occurred

• Nausea or vomiting

• Headaches

• Blurred vision and sensitivity to light

• Slurred speech or saying things that don’t make sense

• Difficulty concentrating or balance

• Feeling anxious or irritable for no apparent reason

• Feeling overly tired.

Preventing Concussions

Some accidents can’t be avoided. But you can do a lot to prevent a concussion by taking simple precautions in situations where you might injure your head.  Wearing the appropriate headgear and safety equipment when playing contact sports can significantly reduce your chances of having a concussion.

Preventing concussions is mostly common sense. The best thing you can do to protect your head is to use it!

How can we keep our son or daughter safe on the football field?

Foremost in all our minds should be teaching children proper techniques so they are learning to do things the safe and correct way. One of the great ways to prevent injury is to consistently teach age appropriate and proper techniques that are learned from a very early age so they become natural to the player. This is “YOUTH FOOTBALL” and I would remind coaches to please remember that youth football should be a positive learning experience, and I would suggest that parents play an active role in that experience.

What parents and coaches need to know about Youth Football and the Heat!! 

When football season starts, local youth will be playing in very hot and often humid conditions. Coaches and parents should know that athletes need access to water. Water is the most important hydrating element you can provide. Players need to be able to drink whenever they want. An athlete must continue to hydrate so that they don’t get thirsty. If you are thirsty, you are already behind in water consumption and getting into a potentially problematic situation.

Remember, water is not a reward, it is essential…