New Findings on the Impact of Head Injuries in Young Athletes

A new study of the brain condition, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, has found a link between the degenerative illness, caused by repetitive head impacts, and young athletes who passed away before the age of 30. It provides important takeaways for parents and their children in contact sports, especially when a head injury or concussion occurs. “Overall, the positives of participating in youth sports outweigh the negatives,” said Daniel Gustkey, D.O., a pediatric neurologist at Pediatrix® Specialty Care of Austin. “Certain sports and activities have a higher incidence of concussions than others, so it is especially important to closely monitor these athletes for any signs and symptoms of brain injuries. The most important aspect of head injuries is complete recovery before returning to athletics to reduce the likely hit of a second hit which prolongs recovery.”

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