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As Team USA prepares for competition in Paris, it’s clear that athlete sleep quality and concussion management are crucial yet often overlooked aspects of performance.
Research shows that adequate sleep can enhance athletic performance, shaving critical fractions of a second off times. Dr. Michael S. Jaffee, chair of the UF College of Medicine’s neurology department and director of the UF BRAIN Center, recently said:
“Tenths of a second can be the difference between being on the podium and not.”
During a four-day visit ending May 3, Jaffee and UF Health’s multidisciplinary team hosted U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) health care personnel to hone their skills in brain injury research and treatment.
UF Health’s partnership with the USOPC highlights their commitment to cutting-edge concussion care.
“What we’re trying to do is bring Team USA personnel evidence-based, effective techniques,” Jaffee said.
The visit included twice-daily lectures and shadowing UF Health physicians and therapists. Jordan Knowlton-Key, D.C., a chiropractic sports physician for the USOPC, stated:
“UF Health is a great partner because of the clinical expertise.”
Attendees received copies of Jaffee’s book, “Navigating the Challenges of Concussion,” which formed the curriculum’s basis.
Neuropsychologist Aliyah Snyder, Ph.D., a former competitive skeleton athlete, also shared her insights, inspired by her own experiences with concussions.
After experiencing multiple concussions, she made the tough decision to retire from the sport, which sparked her passion for assisting others in navigating the challenges of concussions.
“The subject is kind of personally relevant experience to me. I’ve been working in this space for a long time as a coach, as a provider, as an athlete myself. It’s such a great opportunity to continue to be part of that community, to give back to programs that inspire kids."
UF Health’s collaboration with the USOPC underscores the importance of comprehensive concussion management and sleep in achieving peak athletic performance.
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