Stay Safe This School Sports Season: UVA Health Urges Concussion Awareness for Student Athletes

As high school and college sports, especially football, kick into gear, the UVA Health Sports Concussion Service team wants to stress the importance of spotting concussion symptoms. Neuropsychologist Dr. Rachel Smetana believes that while the brain can heal itself after one or two concussions, proper treatment is key to avoiding long-term issues.

“The real concern arises when athletes start experiencing multiple concussions in a short time, and recovery takes longer,” Dr. Smetana explained to CvilleRightNow. She emphasizes that symptoms can vary greatly from one person to another, so it’s crucial to remain vigilant after any head injury.

“Not every concussion looks the same,” she added. “An athlete may have symptoms that are completely different from another athlete’s, even if they both sustained a concussion.”

Neurologist Dr. Jose Posas points out the legal aspect: even if an athlete seems fine after a brief memory lapse, they cannot return to play until fully evaluated. This is vital for player safety.

Dr. Smetana also stresses the basics of concussion prevention. “Following the rules of the game is essential,” she said. “It sounds simple, but some players might ignore them in the heat of competition. Coaches and players should always stay updated on the rules to keep everyone safe.”

Communication is key, too. “Parents and coaches should encourage athletes to speak up if something feels off,” Dr. Smetana advised. “Even if they’re unsure if they hit their head, reporting any concerns is important.”

The UVA Health team is made up of neuropsychologists, neurologists, and athletic trainers who work together to provide thorough evaluations and treatments for concussions. With the increasing awareness of brain injuries in sports, such efforts are crucial for protecting the health of young athletes.

In recent years, research has highlighted the growing number of diagnosed concussions in youth sports. According to the NCAA, there were over 7,700 reported concussions in college sports alone during the 2019-2020 academic year. This statistic underscores the urgency of addressing concussion recognition and prevention.

Social media trends show a rising interest in concussion education. Hashtags like #ConcussionAwareness are popping up, as parents, coaches, and athletes share experiences and advice. This online conversation is a valuable tool for spreading knowledge and ensuring safety in sports.

Ultimately, awareness and open dialogue can make a big difference. By staying informed and encouraging athletes to report any issues, we can help create a safer sports environment for everyone.

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