We Can Learn About Head Injuries From The NHL

Like many of you, I’ve never been to a hockey game.  But despite that, we have much we can learn from the National Hockey League.

You see.  The NHL has a concussion problem.

The NHL’s most recognizable player is young star Sidney Crosby.  But last January, Sid the Kid took a high hit and sustained a concussion.  His concussion caused him to miss half the 2010-2011 season, the 2011 Stanley Cup playoffs, and the first quarter of the 2011-12 season.  He finally came back, but after eight games back, Crosby sustained another hit and symptoms of concussions and is again out indefinitely.

Crosby isn’t alone. In about a quarter of the season, 23 different NHL players have been limited by concussions.

What I take from this is that the NHL, unlike the NFL or some other sports, take concussions and head injuries seriously.  And I think it’s important for all of us to learn that.

I frequently tell people that the thing that scares me the most about our car wreck or other personal injury cases are the potential head injuries.  They are difficult to diagnose, and the consequences can be life-altering. 

So if you or a loved one is hurt in an accident, make sure you’re on the lookout for potential signs of head injuries.  Don’t dismiss those headaches, changes in temperament, feelings of confusion, nausea or vomiting, or fatigue.  Take them seriously, and seek the care you need.