Mayo Clinic Experts Address Concussion Issues

As many as 3.9 sports-related and recreation-related concussions occur in the U.S. each year, claims the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And, that number may even be higher, because many more concussions are not diagnosed correctly.

Even with all the recent attention on concussions, how much do people really know about how to spot a concussion, what to do about it, and how they are treated? Many people don't know how a concussion is caused.

Childhood Concussions May Impair Brain Function After Injury
Organized sports at all levels have implemented safety protocols for preventing head injuries, most pediatric concussions still result from athletic activities.

‘Concussions usually are caused by a blow to the head, they also can occur when the head and upper body are violently shaken.’

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A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that alters the way your brain functions. Effects are usually temporary, but can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, balance and coordination. Although concussions usually are caused by a blow to the head, they also can occur when the head and upper body are violently shaken. These injuries can cause a loss of consciousness; however, most concussions do not. Because of this, some people have concussions and don't realize it. Concussions are common, particularly if you play a contact sport.

Mayo Clinic has these experts available for media interviews:

Arizona:

Reduced Blood Flow Identified In Brain After Clinical Recovery Of Acute Concussion
Some athletes who suffer sports-related concussions have reduced blood flow in parts of their brains even after clinical recovery, says a study.

- David Dodick, M.D., neurologist and the medical director of the Headache Program and the Sports Neurology and Concussion Program
- Amaal Starling, M.D., neurologist, headache and concussion expert
- Charles Adler, M.D., Ph.D., neurologist, movement disorders specialist, brain bank research
- Jennifer Wethe, Ph.D., neuropsychologist and concussion and rehabilitation expert

Minnesota:

- Rodolfo Savica, M.D., Ph.D., neurologist
- Michael Stuart, M.D., orthopedic surgeon and co-director, Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine
- David Soma, M.D., pediatric sports medicine physician

Florida:

US Soccer Federation Bans Heading For Children Under 10 To Prevent Concussions
The new guidelines by the soccer federation were made to resolve a legal case launched by parents and players alleging not enough was done to treat and monitor head injuries.

- Dennis Dickson, M.D., neuropathologist and Robert E. Jacoby Professor of Alzheimer''s Research
- Jennifer Maynard, M.D., family and sports medicine consultant
- Kristina DeMatas, D.O., family medicine consultant
- Kevin Bieniek, predoctoral student in Mayo Graduate School''s Neurobiology of Disease program and brain bank researcher

Source-Newswise

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