What are the NFL players being told about concussions by their own Players' Association?

I think its fascinating that the teams have physicians but that the Players' Association is advocating the use of IMPARTIAL specialists: neurologists. JR


What is a concussion?

A concussion is a type of brain injury. It occurs when the brain moves quickly enough to interrupt its function. Most concussions result in full recovery, but some can lead to more severe injuries if not recognized and treated properly.

The source of the injury is not always clear. It can come from a blow to the head or even from a blow to the body. It can come from one big hit  or from several smaller ones.

You may not always be aware that you are concussed. It is common that  concussed people do not know they are injured. Look out for the health of your teammates. Be aware of these signs and symptoms in yourself  and fellow players:
What is interesting is that the NFL plaers' association is teaming up with neurologists (the American Academy of Neurologists)


WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

• Disorientation or confusion
• Memory loss
• Behavior or personality change
• Trouble concentrating
• Feeling sleepy or groggy
• Sensitive to light or sound
• Dizziness or nausea
• Headache

If you or a teammate have any of these symptoms, tell your medical staff immediately. Trying to play with a concussion puts  you at serious risk for further injury
.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM MY TEAM?

IMMEDIATE EVALUATION OF A SUSPECTED CONCUSSION.
If a concussion is suspected (in either a game or practice), you should
be evaluated immediately. There is an NFL protocol for this evaluation
that can be done in under 10 minutes. If you think you may have a
concussion, report your symptoms and request this exam. DO NOT
TRY TO PLAY THROUGH THIS INJURY.


THOROUGH EVALUATION TO DETERMINE PRESENCE OF
CONCUSSION.

Not every hit that causes symptoms is a concussion and  only medical personnel can make the diagnosis. You should be evaluated  with a comprehensive neurological evaluation, ideally in a quiet, distractionfree place.

RETURN TO WORK. If you have a concussion, you should not participate  in a game or practice until you are (1) symptom free at rest and during physical exertion and (2) cleared by your team physician AND the team’s  independent neurological consultant.

 The return to work protocol should
involve several steps of increasing exertion – from a stationary bike, to
jogging, to agility work, to non-contact drills. With each step, a player must
be symptom free to move to the next step. You should never play football
after a concussion if you have not been evaluated appropriately or are still  experiencing symptoms.

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO?

You have the right to a second opinion.

It is your health and your brain. If  you are unsure about your medical condition and/or your medical care,
do not hesitate to seek additional care. There are many experts in sports  concussion that can provide the care you need.

Don’t let any question go unasked. You and your family deserve the best  information. If you would like help getting a second opinion, or have a question, call