There are many advantages to lengthening the recovery time for an athlete after they suffer a concussion. First of all, several studies have suggested that there is possibly a link between a concussions and symptoms of depression, dementia, and Alzheimer's later in their lives. Proponents argue that even if these links can't be conclusively proved, it is too big of a risk to take simply to play in one or two sports games. Also, studies have shown that there is an increased risk of concussion after the first concussion has been incurred. If a player suffers a concussion soon after they suffer their first concussion than they are at an increased risk for further brain damage. Studies on football players who have suffered multiple concussions have shown that players who have multiple concussions often have cognitive impairment similar to conditions only previously seen in boxers. There is also the possibility of a rare occurrence called secondary shock syndrom. This can lead to severe brain damage or even to death.
However, there are some who believe that there is not yet enough known about concussions to institute regulations on the return-to-play time. Opponents argue that concussions often go undiagnosed because the athletes themselves don't want to look weak. Therefore, increasing the return-to-play times would just lead to more athletes not admitting their true symptoms because they want to continue to play the game. Also, many critics argue that the links between concussions and things like depression, dementia, and Alzheimer's aren't yet proven and may not actually exist. The NFL recently released a study that found no connections between these effects and concussions. Also, it has not yet been proven that secondary-shock syndrome actually exists because it is so rare that many people think that it may be misdiagnosed.
I am going to argue that return-to-play times should be increased because it is in the best interest of everybody who is involved. It will lead to less severe long-lasting injuries for players and everybody will be better off in the end.
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I completely agree with your position. I think that athletes come back from concussions and other injuries way too early. Not enough athletes wait long enough to come back. However one notable athlete that is wating long enough is Blake Griffin, a basketball player from Oklahoma. He suffered a concussion in the first half of a game and has since missed the rest of that game and another game. I think that although this is hurting his team, which has lost the two games without him, he is making the right choice.
ReplyDeleteAs an athlete, I could definitely relate to denying my sympotms if it meant I could play in more games. And especially at the professional level, where players paychecks come from their performances, I could absolutely see them wanting to deny the fact that they were hurt. However, if monitored by proper physicians and trainers, the signs should be clear. After that, it's obvious that the time for recovery should be as long as necessary for a healthy return. You have a good argument, and i'm sure you'll find lots of doctors, physical therapists, and athletic trainers who will agree with you.
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