An estimated 10 percent of all athletes participating in contact sports suffer from concussions, according to the Sports Concussion Institute of Los Angeles. As the physical trainers, physicians, and players of Valley College become more knowledgeable about the risks of these traumatic head injuries, treatment procedures are also fluctuating.
"Things are kind of changing now," Valley College Athletic Trainer Angelo Cimity said. "We get guys getting concussions, but we have a protocol as far as our doctors are concerned. Time (out depends) whether it's their first or second or what type of concussion."
According to Medicinenet.com there are two main types of concussions. One is a simple concussion in which the patient's symptoms gradually resolve within seven to 10 days. The second is called a complex concussion in which the patient's symptoms are prolonged and their thought processes or brain functions are affected. Any athlete with repeated concussions falls into the complex category. Symptoms can include passing out, lack of concentration, nausea, light-headedness, confusion and blurry vision
"I think every football player has had one," Chargers' inside linebacker Kevin Burnett said in a recent article from the San Diego Tribune. "I think it's just a matter of time. If you ain't had one, you ain't played the game long enough."
Because the lines of concussions are hazy, the treatment for these injuries similarly shares a gray area. According to Cimity, treatment for a first concussion consists of one week of as little brain stimulation as possible. This includes no practice, class, television, or any function that may give the brain too much activity. According to the Valley training staff, the less stimulation, the better. After one week the staff begins rehabilitation and testing in the form of mild cardiovascular workouts. Once the athlete is deemed symptom-free he is then allowed to return.
After a second concussion the patient can be out from two to three weeks with similar testing performed after the allotted time. Seemingly a concussion can happen to anyone at anytime especially on the football field, but some athletes have a different perspective.
"We have some kids that have concussions in practice from going too hard…some kids are out of shape (and) are not working out," Valley defensive tackle Jake Laumoli said. "If they're in the weight room working out, that will help…the lazy ones get hurt, they get the concussions."
As rules continue to change and become stricter from pop-warner up to the NFL, awareness seems to be the key for these very serious injuries. Though major rules and regulations are now affecting the game, the little things still remain a focal point.
"I think the kids are more conscious that their helmets are blown up," Cimity said.
is a member of the 
Be the first to comment on this article! Log in to Comment
You must be logged in to comment on an article. Not already a member? Register now