The medical term “concussion” continued to be a buzzworthy term in sports this year. Awareness for the traumatic brain injury has grown in all levels of sports over the past several years, but 2011 saw several leagues implement new rules to protect players.
In February, the NFL revealed its new sideline concussion assessment protocol, combining a symptom checklist, limited neurological exam, and balance assessment.
On Dec. 8 in a game against Pittsburgh, Browns quarterback Colt McCoy suffered a concussion but was not given the test, resulting in heavy criticism toward the team. Less than two weeks later, the NFL announced that an NFL-employed trainer would be stationed at every game to assist on-field trainers in handling head injuries.
These changes were in addition to safer equipment and already toughened helmet-to-helmet hit rules.
Major League Soccer finally implemented its first concussion policy this past season, requiring teams to have a consulting neuropsychologist on staff for in-game testing and rules for having players sit out if they are deemed concussed.
The NHL’s biggest star Sidney Crosby missed substantial time recovering from a concussion. In March the league implemented concussion rules that include an assessment test and require players to sit out with symptoms.
There are still many unknowns regarding concussions; however, the sports leagues are moving in the right direction with their rules. Sports will continue to have big hits but, at least for now, the safety measures are keeping up.
