This week in concussion research: Protein levels in the brain could help determine when concussion victims are ready to return to activity.

As head injury studies surge forward, new physiological changes during and after concussions continue to make their presence known. Diagnosing and treatment has gotten much more precise due to these indicators.

The latest discovery is a correlation between levels of the brain protein tau and a concussion victim’s recovery period. The more tau after a sports-related head injury, the longer it will take before the athlete can return to play. And since tau levels can be measured in the blood, it should prove a simple initial diagnostic tool and a concrete way to determine if athletes are completely recovered later on.

Here’s to all the research that’s been done to better concussion care, and here’s to more discoveries like this one that will allow athletes in the future to play it safer.

*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. GelDefender 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.