Study: In soccer, girls may be more likely to play through concussions

Athletes at all levels have a habit of playing through injuries, specifically concussions, in the heat of the moment, but the problem might be more prevalent among girls than boys, a new study indicates.

 

Researchers looked at 87 youth soccer players, two-thirds of whom were girls, who sustained concussions during play and were later treated at a sports medicine clinic. More than half of the girls treated had returned to play the same day as the concussion, while only 17 percent of concussed boys did the same. Taken at face value, that indicates that girls are five times more likely to play through concussions than boys.

 

 

Of course, this study was limited to one sport, in one geographical area, with less than 100 participants, so its conclusions are preliminary. It’s safe to conclude, however, that there is some disparity. Girls are more susceptible to concussions than boys, but the study seems to indicate that they have less concussion awareness.

 

If the phenomenon is borne out and confirmed on a larger scale, then more focus needs to be given to both educating girls about the consequences of concussions and regulating how they are handled in girls’ sports. Clearly the current efforts just aren’t enough.

 

*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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