MIT addresses head injury risks in sailing

While concussion reform has been sweeping other sports, very little attention has been given to sailing head injuries. A recent article out of MIT may be the beginning of change, though.

 

According to Sailing Master Franny Charles, head injuries were the most frequent injury for which MIT’s sailing team sought medical help. The resulting functional problems were affecting the members’ schoolwork, even forcing some to leave the school entirely.

 

Because over 3,000 MIT students sail actively every year (either competitively or recreationally), the school took steps to reduce the risks. The swinging booms on the fleet were replaced with lighter carbon booms, and all new boats purchased have a higher rig by four inches. In addition, all sailors are required to wear helmets.

 

As a result of these simple measures, the students’ head injuries have all but ended.

 

Charles believes that similar actions by leaders in the sport (boat designers, organizers, etc.) could be a significant step toward protecting sailors on a larger scale. Perhaps with better awareness toward the dangers, sailing will see a similar transformation to other sports and be safer for heads in the future.

 

*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.

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