Student athletes likely to keep playing after concussion: study

Cincinnati – Many high school football players may continue playing in a game after experiencing concussion symptoms, suggests research from a new Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center study.

Researchers surveyed 120 high school football players, 30 of whom reported they had suffered a concussion. More than 80 had received concussion education, and most were aware of concussion symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, memory and concentration problems, and light sensitivity, according to a press release. Athletes also knew that returning to play too soon could result in serious injury.

However, 53 percent of student athletes reported they would “always or sometimes” keep playing with a headache if they suffered an injury in the future. Likewise, 46 percent indicated they might not report their symptoms to their coach.

Researchers did not ask the players why they would continue to play even with a possible concussion.

Concussions account for almost 9 percent of high school athletic injuries, the press release states. Researchers said more studies are needed to make policy recommendations, but sideline screening by coaches and trainers may help identify injured athletes.

The study was presented May 6 at the 2013 Pediatric Academic Societies Annual Meeting in Washington.