DALLAS, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- U.S. athletic trainers have released a video to raise awareness of the seriousness of concussions in football.
Members of the National Athletic Trainers' Association and the National Academy of Neuropsychology Foundation say they want to educate the public -- especially athletes, health professionals, coaches, parents and administrators -- about the importance of identifying concussions and taking appropriate action.
The 12-minute educational video, "Concussions in Football: Signs, Symptoms and Playing Safe," is available as a free online download on affiliated Web sites such as www.nanonline.org and www.nata.org/health-issues/concussion.
"The invisible nature of concussions makes it imperative that athletes and coaches properly recognize the signs and symptoms of concussions, in order to foster quicker diagnosis and medical care when needed," trainer Kevin Guskiewicz of the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill says in a statement.
Guskiewicz and colleagues urge erring on the side of caution and "when in doubt, sit out."
Other recommendations include having injured athletes:
-- Consult immediately with their trainer, team physician or coach if they think they might have a concussion or if they just don't feel right.
-- Removed from play immediately and not returned to play on the same day if a concussion is suspected.
-- Not return to play until evaluated and written clearance is given by a healthcare professional.
