Sports-Related Brain Injuries

From peewee soccer to professional football, high-impact physical activities put athletes at risk of severe brain injuries and concussions. And without prompt medical attention, sports-related head injuries can cause symptoms that last a lifetime. At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, we have years of experience helping brain injury victims throughout Ohio, and we may be able to help if you or a loved one suffered a brain injury while playing sports.

Brain Injury Dangers for Young Athletes

Even at the youngest competitive levels, coaches and players work hard to help their teams win. And when injuries happen during games or practice, players and team staff may be tempted to “shake it off” and keep playing. But studies suggest that brain development continues beyond age 18 and minor concussions can have lasting effects for young athletes.

Current recommendations suggest that children under age 18 should avoid returning to sports for at least three months after the diagnosis of a concussion. If your child is suffering from a head injury related to sports, it’s important to get his or her condition evaluated by a specialist as soon as possible to help prevent further injury.

Practice Helmet Safety

Many high-impact sports require the use of helmets to help prevent serious head and brain injuries. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that helmets should fit properly and be:

• Well maintained
  Cracks, chips, and other damage can affect a helmet’s ability to protect players from impacts that can cause serious injury.

• Age appropriate
  Ensure the helmet you or your child is wearing is designed for the correct age group and competitive level.

• Worn consistently and correctly
  Wearing a helmet improperly or failing to use safety straps can cause it to fly off or reduce its effectiveness during play.

• Certified for use
  Different types of helmets—both new and reconditioned—are subject to certification by safety organizations. Ask coaches and league officials about the labels you should look for on a helmet before you start playing.

Practice Helmet Safety

At Nurenberg Paris, we understand the devastating physical, emotional, and financial effects that brain injuries can have on athletes and their families. If you or your child have suffered a sports-related traumatic brain injury, our Cleveland brain injury lawyers are ready to listen to your story. Call us anytime at (216) 621-2300 or complete our online form to get a free evaluation of your case today.

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