Advances in Gear and Training Techniques Aim to Reduce Concussions

In a news story from KXII in Texas, they discuss ways one area school is trying to reduce concussions.

Concussions have been a growing concern in many contact sports, especially football. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that football accounts for the highest concussion rates among all sports. But, recent advancements in equipment and training methods show promise in reducing these alarming figures.

Every football season witnesses a surge in concussion rates, as stated by Dr. James Frame, an Emergency Physician at Wilson N. Jones.

However, there is a wave of optimism, as many football programs are adopting measures to safeguard their players from potential injuries.

One such initiative comes from Denison High School Football.

Christian Cabello, the school's Athletic Trainer, points out the proactive approach they've been adopting.

“We’ve deliberately reduced contact sessions by limiting to less than three contact practices a week. It's about maintaining the essence of the game while ensuring safety.”

Modern gear, equipped with the latest technologies, is also playing a pivotal role in this transformation. Cabello explained 

“We introduced guardian caps which are padded covers for helmets. Their design is focused on dampening the impact when players get hit.” 

Apart from external protection, there's innovation brewing inside the helmets as well. Some offer customization options, ensuring a snug fit, tailored to the unique dimensions of each athlete's head.

However, while these advancements are noteworthy, they aren't the ultimate solution.

Dr. Frame points out that no helmet can be completely concussion-proof. The natural physiology involving the cerebral spinal fluid ensures that the brain retains a certain degree of mobility inside the skull, which can still lead to injuries.

Nonetheless, the combination of revamped training methods and cutting-edge equipment has shown tangible results. Frame asserts:

“We’ve witnessed a decrease by about a third in concussion rates, which is indeed a positive stride.”

The Yellowjacket football team, among others, stands as testament to these results. Cabello confirms:

“We’ve observed a significant drop in the number of concussions within our team.”

This shift in training and equipment is revolutionizing football. While it remains a high-impact sport with inherent risks, the ongoing innovations are certainly mitigating some of the imminent threats, making the game safer for its passionate players.