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Concussions Nearly 10% of High School Athletic Injuries

Posted by Resource Center

American Medical News is reporting that the AMA has adopted a policy saying that young athletes suspected of having a concussion should have written approval by a physician before they can return to play or practice.

The policy calls for the AMA to promote the adoption of such a requirement for school and other organized youth sports. The AMA also will encourage educational efforts to improve the understanding of concussions among athletes, parents, coaches and trainers.

Concussions account for nearly 10% of all high school athletic injuries. "Any movement forward [to protect against concussions] is positive," said Dr. Welsh, an alternate delegate for the Indiana State Medical Assn. "What I don't want to see is someone have a concussion that's missed, and the next one is the bad one."

Research on the prevalence and impact of concussions on athletes has created new awareness about the problem nationwide. The Center for Injury Research and Policy said 40% of high school athletes with concussions return to play too soon.

The National Football League and the National Collegiate Athletic Assn. have instituted policies to prevent players with concussions from returning during the same game. State legislatures have pursued measures requiring removal of athletes suspected of having concussions.

Medical organizations also have issued guidance. Most recently, the American Academy of Neurology in October published a position statement that athletes suspected of having a concussion should be removed from play until they are evaluated by a physician.

"Concussions account for nearly 10% of all high school athletic injuries," said AMA Board of Trustees Member Edward L. Langston, MD.

Excerpt from American Medical News - November 29, 2010 issue

Topics: Schools