CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada recently took a look at brain injury in connection with Sidney Crosby’s recovery after suffering two concussions last January. The story can be viewed on CBC’s website by clicking here.
Most of us are familiar with the young superstar’s story: he is sidelined for almost a year because of two hits to the head. His concussions leave him with migraine headaches, dizziness, and nausea; his balance and body movements are compromised – a scary reality for a young superstar.
Now that he’s back on the ice, we realize that Crosby’s contributions to the game go beyond his skill and record-setting play. His time off the ice has drawn unprecedented attention to head injuries in hockey. By refusing to return until totally symptom-free, Crosby has set a new norm in competitive sport. Gone are the days when competitors are expected to play through a head injury.
Concussion experts rejoice. Parents breathe a sigh of relief.
There are more and more resources on concussion awareness for parents and coaches involved in youth contact sport. Think First is a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention of brain and spinal cord injuries.
Think First explains that concussions can occur not just in hockey, but in many different sports including football, rugby, and soccer.
Symptoms vary and affect people differently. Concussions occur without any loss of consciousness. And because concussions are less visible than a broken bone or an open wound, the diagnosis is often missed. That is why people with concussions are called the walking wounded.
So be sure to make the most out of resources like Think First. You can download informative information kits and order resources relevant to your needs.
For More Information:
- The ups and downs of Sidney Crosby’s recovery, The National Post
- Think First, The Think First Foundation of Canada
- What parents need to know about hockey and concussions, parentcentral.ca