Concussions and head injuries from playing American football cause chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a disease that leads to the deaths of players and various harmful symptoms after they retire. These symptoms include memory loss, depression, anxiety, headaches, stress, and trouble sleeping.
The number of former NFL players diagnosed with CTE after death or reporting CTE symptoms continues to rise. According to Boston University, CTE is a brain condition found in athletes, military veterans, and others with a history of repeated brain injuries.
The NFL is working to address these health concerns and improve player safety. Studies show that repeated head injuries can severely affect behavior and brain function.
Since 2022, there has been an 18% increase in reported concussions in the NFL. Experts believe this trend should be reversed, and players should be better protected, especially since there have been many advancements in technology and research related to helmets. It has been recommended that the NFL make changes to helmets to reduce concussions.
Before each NFL season begins, all players and coaching staff must learn about concussions and the importance of reporting any concussion symptoms immediately. Every player in the league must also take a baseline neurological and physical exam.
This exam, which can be computerized or done on paper, checks different brain functions. It tests attention, memory, language, speech, reasoning, planning, and organizational skills. These results are used as a reference if a player gets a head injury during the season.
The preseason physical exam gives the team’s doctor and athletic trainer the chance to answer any questions the player may have. It also allows the doctor and trainer to discuss any past concussions, go over the importance of reporting concussion symptoms, and explain the concussion protocol for the season.
If a football player gets a concussion in the NFL, they must follow the concussion protocol set by the NFL Head, Neck, and Spine Committee.
