Sports-related concussion: Play it safe

Early referral and treatment can minimise impact of brain injuries

Some parents are keeping their children away from rugby and football because they worry about brain injuries from these contact sports. Doctors say the fast pace of such sports means that those who suffer concussion on the field could be missed, but
Some parents are keeping their children away from rugby and football because they worry about brain injuries from these contact sports. Doctors say the fast pace of such sports means that those who suffer concussion on the field could be missed, but they add that early diagnosis and proper treatment can help athletes return to sports safely. ST FILE PHOTO
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Concussion concerns keep some parents from allowing their children to play soccer or other contact sports. They fear their children will get knocked out and sustain serious brain injuries that will have long-term effects.

Concussions are brain injuries. They happen when a strong force causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth, creating chemical changes in the brain.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 04, 2018, with the headline Sports-related concussion: Play it safe. Subscribe