Personal Injury Law

ER visits for concussions soar among kid athletes

By Hurley, McKenna & Mertz

Emergency room visits ?for school-age athletes with concussions has skyrocketed in recent years, suggesting the intensity of kids' sports has increased along with awareness of head injuries.? (L. Tanner, AP Medical, 8/30). The findings, however, do not necessarily mean that concussions are on the rise, but may perhaps suggest that people are more aware of head injuries. However, concussions are still likely under treated, as many who think they have concussions do not seek medical treatment believing that rest is all that is needed.

"It definitely is a disturbing trend," said lead author Dr. Lisa Bakhos, an ER physician in Neptune, N.J. "They want to know if they can play tomorrow, and you're just like, 'No!'" she said. "It's not just as simple as get up, shake it off and you'll be fine. According to Dr. Bakhos, "If they're not treated properly, with rest, then they can have long-term problems,? including memory problems, chronic headaches, and learning difficulties
The study examined concussions ?in organized youth sports involving ages 8 to 19. ER visits for 14- to 19-year-olds more than tripled, from about 7,000 in 1997 to nearly 22,000 in 2007. Among ages 8 to 13, visits doubled, from 3,800 to almost 8,000.?

As a medical malpractice attorney, I am concerned by this trend and urge all parents, coaches, and players to take concussions seriously.

Full post as published by Chicago Medical Malpractice Lawyer Blog on September 07, 2010 (boomark / email).