American football has gained notoriety for contributing to high incidences of
traumatic brain injury among players. This sport estimates the highest number of concussions per season, beating rugby, basketball, or baseball. Recent medical studies have also reported that former football players have significantly higher risk of contracting a degenerative disease because of repetitive brain injuries. The authors of these studies estimate that roughly 80 percent of professional players had signs of chronic trauma encephalopathy (CTE).
The cause is fairly obvious. Compared to other sports, American football is built on rough physical exertions. Tackles, which force a player down and cause him to hit his head, are a fairly common occurrence. When these happen often, the trauma can cause abnormalities in the brain.
These reports have changed the way the game is being played. The NFL has implemented several regulations that prevent serious injury. One such rule is the tackling ban: players can no longer tackle with a blow from the crown of the head. Additionally, teams are now encouraged to develop tackling styles that are similar to those of rugby; that is, tackling from the legs and hitting with their shoulders. These changes have reportedly led to a decrease in reported concussions by around 35 percent since 2012.
But medical and sports professionals say there is still a long way to go. American football can only be modified so much without changing the essence of its game-play. Consequently, the current focus is improving protective equipment. There is also some hope for newer and better forms of imaging which would allow athletic trainers to spot damaging tackles and immediately call for medical timeout.
Having lived, breathed, and played professional football for most of his life, Will McHale understands both the beauty and danger of engaging in this sport. For more information, like this Facebook page.
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