Sports

There's No Such Thing as a 'Concussion-Proof' Helmet

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Attorney General George Jepsen warn residents about the dangers of concussions, and issue a reminder about a related state law.

By Michael Dinan 

Connecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Attorney General George Jepsen issued a joint statement on Monday warning of the perils of concussions and sports-related head injuries, as well as the state law that comes into effect after an injury.

Connecticut law requires students who suffer a blow to the head or receive a concussion diagnosis to sit out games and practices until cleared by a licensed medical professional.

“The dangers and lifelong effects of concussions and sports-related head injuries are becoming increasingly clear to doctors and educators who are researching this issue,” Governor Malloy said in the release on Monday. 

“While proper use of helmets and protective equipment is important, it’s critical to remember that no helmet can fully prevent a concussion," said Attorney General Jepsen in the release. 

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Concussion, a type of traumatic brain injury, is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth.

Under Connecticut law, anyone who has a state-issued coaching permit and who coaches intramural or interscholastic athletics must be periodically trained in how to recognize and respond to head injuries and concussions. 

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State law also requires coaches to take a student athlete out of any game or practice if the athlete shows signs of having suffered a concussion after an observed or suspected blow to the head or if the athlete is diagnosed with a concussion. Coaches must keep athletes out of games and practices until receiving written clearance from a licensed medical professional.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise that to help minimize the risks of concussion or other serious brain injuries:

  • Ensure that athletes follow the rules for safety and the rules of the sport.
  • Encourage them to practice good sportsmanship at all times.
  • Wear a helmet to reduce the risk of severe brain injury and skull fracture. 

However, helmets are not designed to prevent concussions. There is no “concussion-proof” helmet. Even with a helmet, avoiding hits to the head is important.

According to the CDC, parents or coaches may observe the following signs or symptoms if an athlete has experienced head trauma:

  • Appears dazed or stunned.
  • Is confused about assignment or position or is unsure of the game, score or opponent.
  • Moves clumsily.
  • Answers questions slowly or forgets an instruction.
  • Can’t recall events prior to or after the hit, bump or fall.
  • Loses consciousness, even briefly.
  • Shows mood, behavior or personality changes.

Student athletes may report the following symptoms following a bump, blow or jolt to the head, according to the CDC:

  • Headache or “pressure” in the head
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Balance problems or dizziness
  • Double or blurry vision
  • Sensitivity to light and noise
  • Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy
  • Concentration or memory problems
  • Confusion
  • Just “not feeling right” or “feeling down”

For more information on student athlete concussions as well as resources for parents and coaches, visit www.cdc.gov/ConcussionInYouthSports.


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