NHL Deals With Head Injuries

 

With the shortened hockey season nearing its halfway point, we need to take stock of the reality of the game today. The game used to be played in a much more physical fashion, and hockey was known as a brute’s sport. Incredibly, hockey helmets were once an optional piece of equipment for players.

 

 

A recent sports science report from ESPN shows that though helmets are no longer an accessory, they may not be doing enough to prevent injuries. The report revealed that although NHL players are about 20% smaller than NFL players, NHL hits can be 17% harder than hits from NFL players. Due to the shape and coverage of regulation helmets, hockey players are not adequately equipped to deal with the impact of multiple hits.

 

The results of these findings coincide with the current events in hockey. The NHL has been rocked by concussions (11 in just the past two weeks), according to the New York Times. Brendan Shanahan, the NHL’s VP of hockey and business development and head disciplinarian, has made it clear that players will be held accountable via suspensions and fines, for hits targeted towards other players’ heads, but many concussions stem from legal hits to the body. The game, as well as the equipment requirements will have to be reevaluated soon. At the rate it’s going, it’ll need to be done sooner rather than later.

 

*Scientists have no conclusive evidence as to whether or how the reduction of g forces during impacts reduces the number or degree of concussions and head injuries. GelDefenderTM products provide supplemental padding as well as cooling and comfort benefits when used with helmets and caps. Participants in activities in which head impacts can occur should always use tested and approved helmets for protection. However, no helmet or supplemental padding can protect the user from all serious head or neck injuries that can result from impacts.

Comments