Concussions, often dismissed as minor injuries, have emerged as a significant public health concern with far-reaching consequences. This paper aims to illuminate the disabling effects of concussions, challenging misconceptions surrounding their severity and advocating for comprehensive measures to address their impact. Through an exploration of the neurological, cognitive, and psychosocial ramifications of concussions, as well as the need for enhanced prevention and management strategies, this paper aims to argue if changes have been made and stigmas surrounding head injuries are evolving in the correct direction. As well as if youth tackle football is sustainable and safe for kids to partake in which is a common debate right now across America.
Concussions, commonly referred to as mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs), disrupt normal brain function through rapid acceleration-deceleration forces. Despite their classification as “mild,” concussions can cause a spiral of neurological impairments, including but not limited to headaches, dizziness, and cognitive deficits. While many individuals recover within weeks, some experience persistent symptoms, leading to prolonged disability and diminished quality of life. Repeated concussions increase the risk of long-term cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). With concussions and CTE being such a leading concern in contact sports, more specifically American football it is imperative to not undermine the diagnosis as mild.
Beyond the physical manifestations, concussions exert a profound impact on an individual’s psychosocial well-being. Cognitive impairments, such as memory deficits and decreased processing speed, hinder academic and occupational functioning, often resulting in missed opportunities and financial strain. Furthermore, the psychological impact of concussions, including depression, anxiety, and personality changes, affect interpersonal relationships and contribute to social isolation. Consequently, the cumulative burden of cognitive and emotional challenges brought on by concussions classifies them as disabling conditions warranting heightened attention and support.
One of the greatest obstacles in addressing the disability of concussions lies in widespread misconceptions and stigmas surrounding these injuries. The common sayings of “getting your bell rung” or “shaking it off” perpetuates a negative culture, where individuals are encouraged to disregard symptoms and return to activity prematurely. In an article about the signs and symptoms of concussions the CDC exclaims, “you may not know how serious the injury is at first and some symptoms may not show up for hours or days.” This is why the stigma of playing through it is so dangerous and the culture needs to be changed. Such attitudes not only compromise the health and safety of those affected but also perpetuate the cycle of underreporting and inadequate management. Consequently, efforts to combat misconceptions and destigmatize concussions are super important for players and people feeling safe with acknowledging their symptoms and not feeling “soft” or “weak” for going through proper protocols.
Although these stigmas hold to be true I feel football across all levels have made substantial leaps in being safer in their protocols and equipment. A major argument being discussed around America now is if youth tackle football is safe enough for kids to participate in. Nico Tocci in an article about the pros and cons of tackle football for kids says, “Tackle football is the safest it has ever been with all of the new technology that is being made for helmets. In my view, the pros of playing tackle football outweigh the cons.” I completely agree with this because as someone who has played youth football since I was 4 I have seen the drills, equipment, and protocols be completely changed to ensure more safety for the players. Helmets specifically are known to be designed with the sole purpose of reducing the risk of concussions or any blunt trauma to the head. Coaches across America are also now required to complete concussion protocol and prevention training prior to their sports season.
With concussions being a major concern because of the risks of CTE and life long damage equipment in football has seen major improvements in many aspects across all levels and ages. In an article posted by the NFL on helmet innovation they highlight, “Better-performing helmets have contributed to an average sustained 25% reduction in concussions across the last five seasons.” They also went on to say, “For the fourth season in a row, nearly 100% of players are wearing top-performing helmets.” This evidently shows that even at the highest level grown men and technology are acknowledging the dangers of concussions and working towards change. This has a trickle down effect all the way to the youth and highschool level as well.
A new piece of equipment being seen more in the youth and highschool levels that started in the NFL are the guardian caps. The guardian caps act as another form of protection on top of the already improved helmets. Writer Aubrey Mcshan in an article explains, “Guardian Caps absorb and manage energy from helmet collisions, reducing repetitive blow impacts. The soft shell design mitigates both linear and rotational forces on the head.” I personally have used this piece of equipment and have felt the benefits first hand. This is another example of taking the sport to new levels and ensuring player safety. With such success at high levels like college and professional football, youth and highschool have now taken the next step of integrating the same equipment into their programs further pushing the argument that Youth and highschool football is safe to play without the fear of life long disability burdened from concussions.
Beyond equipment prevention remains the cornerstone of mitigating the disability burden associated with concussions. Initiatives aimed at educating athletes, coaches, parents, and healthcare professionals about concussion recognition and proper management protocols are instrumental in reducing the incidence and severity of these injuries. Additionally, implementing evidence-based return-to-play guidelines and ensuring access to multidisciplinary care for individuals with persistent symptoms are essential components of comprehensive concussion management strategies. By integrating primary prevention efforts with targeted interventions for those affected, we can strive towards a future where the disabling impact of concussions is minimized, and individuals can thrive without the shadow of traumatic brain injury looming overhead. It is widely known that trainers do not take concussions or head injuries lightly and they play a large role in ending any stigmas.
Concussions represent more than just fleeting moments of disorientation; they embody a significant public health challenge with profound neurological, cognitive, and psychosocial implications. By acknowledging the disabling effects of concussions, dispelling misconceptions, and advocating for comprehensive prevention and management strategies, we can cultivate a society that prioritizes the health and well-being of individuals at risk. Through collective awareness and concerted action, we can pave the way towards a future where concussions no longer rob individuals of their potential and autonomy, but instead empower them to lead fulfilling lives free from the shackles of disability.
Work Cited
NICO TOCCI | Warwick High School. “The Pros and Cons of Tackle Football for Kids [Column].” LancasterOnline, 20 Mar. 2022, lancasteronline.com/opinion/columnists/the-pros-and-cons-of-tackle-football-for-kids-column/article_54f45894-a5fe-11ec-a62f-93a6d5971041.html.
“Concussion Signs and Symptoms.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 12 Feb. 2019, http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/basics/concussion_symptoms.html.
Nfl. “Helmet Innovation: Continued Advancements to Keep Players Safe.” NFL.Com, NFL, 13 Oct. 2023, http://www.nfl.com/playerhealthandsafety/equipment-and-innovation/engineering-technology/helmet-innovation-continued-advancements-to-keep-players-safe.
AUBREY MCSHAN. “Guardian Caps: What Are They & How Do They Work?: Academy.” Academy Outdoor and Sports, Academy Sports + Outdoors, http://www.academy.com/expert-advice/what-are-guardian-caps#:~:text=Certain%20positions%20on%20the%20field,mitigates%20the%20force%20from%20collisions. Accessed 12 Apr. 2024.
Sprockets and Springes 