Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Long term implications?

When QB Trent Green suffered a "severe" concussion in 2007, his second in two seasons, there was talk of his retirement. After taking extended time off, he is returning to the starting line-up this weekend, with some columnists offering sage advice (DUCK!)

Similarly, after Flyers forward Simon Gagne missed most of last season with following a concussion, he is returning to action after 7 months off.

With researchers identifying long term risks of depression in athletes who have sustained multiple concussions, a recent article reveals that athletes are lining up to donate their brains to researchers for post-mortem analysis.

While it may take years to make a definitive link, athletes at any level (HS, College, Pros) who are playing contact sports need to take notice and recognize the potential for long-term damage.