Football players in the United States sustained approximately 300,000 concussions in 2009, the National Women's Health Information Center reports, with emergency rooms in the United States treated some 45,000 head injuries attributed to the sports. Although football can be risky, using helmets appropriately can prevent many serious head and spine injuries. Understanding the importance of proper protective devices, learning what to do in case of injury and training players to minimize the chance of injury can reduce the risks associated with the sport.
Benefits
A football helmet can prevent concussion by cushioning the head in case of impact during play. Helmets with a face shield protect the eyes and other structures of the face from kicks. The American College of Sports Medicine explains that unlike bicycle or motorcycle helmets, football helmets are designed to fit snugly and prevent movement of the head and neck. This can prevent serious neck injury, which in severe cases can lead to paralysis or even death.
Helmet Removal After Injury
If a football player suffers a head or neck injury, or if he is unconscious, paramedics and other emergency health-care workers should immobilize and transport him without removing his helmet, if at all possible. In some cases, the helmet may need to be removed to provide respiratory support, but the American College of Sports Medicine maintains that most of the time, this is unnecessary, and that only the face shield should be removed while the helmet remains in place.
Other Protective Equipment
Aside from football helmets and adequate neck padding, football players should use other protective devices to prevent serious injury. As with any contact sport, mouth guards can protect the teeth. Shoulder pads and pants with leg pads protect your shoulders, hips, thighs, legs and tailbone. Boys and men should wear an athletic support cup to protect the testicles from injury. Other protective equipment the KidsHealth website recommends include gloves, forearm pads and appropriate shoes or cleats.
Behavior Recommendations
Teach players to avoid injury by refusing to allow them to engage in risky behavior while on the playing field. Discourage them from lowering their heads and using their helmets as weapons while running, blocking and tackling. They should instead raise their heads, particularly when tackling. Coaches must be trained in how to handle serious injuries before paramedics arrive, and should check each player's protective equipment, including making sure that helmets are strapped tightly. All players should have thorough physical exams at the start of each season to make sure that they have the strength necessary for the sport.
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