Concussion doesn’t just affect the brain, but the whole body. The interaction of the ‘heart-brain axis’ means that as the brain works to heal its injury, it puts extra stress on the heart.
In a landmark Senate report, the government was urged to take a greater role in overseeing compliance of concussion rules across sports leagues. Details, however, were in short supply.
Some First Nations women who sustain head injuries from family violence don’t access health care and support. We studied why and found one reason is a fear their children will be taken away.
While much of the inquiry into concussions and repeated head trauma in sport will focus on professional players and leagues, local teams and young players should also look out for the findings.
David Howell, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
While high-profile concussions in the NFL have brought renewed attention to the gravity of head injuries, they can also occur on the playground or during junior varsity practices – with lasting effects.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was carried off the field during a game on Sept. 29 after his second injury in only a few days, raising questions about NFL concussion protocols.
Canadian researchers are exploring unanswered questions about concussion: How to diagnose it accurately and quickly, how to predict outcomes and promote recovery, and how to prevent it altogether.
Every year, about 70 per cent of long-term care residents have at least one fall, and half of those result in injury. Wearable gear and changes to living spaces aim to prevent falls and limit injury.
Every year, about 10 per cent of youth athletes experience a concussion. Research shows there are steps we can take to help prevent these injuries, but we can’t be afraid to make changes.